The one true constant is not space or time but light

                                                                      -Einstein

​ 

Albert contemplates the universe.
Mileva tends the babies and the house.
Waits when he comes home late
from the patent office, checks the mathematics,
calculates the years against the length
of torn fabric, dropped stitches.

Finally, he publishes four papers
in one year. Responses trickle in,
she takes dictation, for each response
proofs in the dim light,
buys stamps in the morning,
addresses the envelopes,
seals and presses them closed.

Recognition alters everything.
Energy collides against speed
their marriage spins apart.
Infinity may be relative,
but the formula for loss
remains constant and unspoken.