i write this poem out of

i write this poem
out of clay

crushing
the bars together
soft and sticky

rolling
madness into form

somersaults
in my palms

splat!

i smash the sphere
and start again

not ever wanting
to finish this piece
for when it's done
it is frozen

paralyzed stiff
never to sprout
wings
again

overheard

nestled in the knowing
lonely for life
i let the soft music play
as my daffodil hands
sew a pocket in your heart

i know i have been happiest...

spine pressed
into warm grass
gaze up
at the sapphire sky
"look for the truth
in the clouds"
you said

lights flashing
figures
dancing ecstatically
sweat enticing
strands
to curl

sailing
on the deck
violent breeze
whipping
hair like a swarm
of bees

awaiting the ruling

"accusing me of my life"*
thoughts stand trial
shoulds curl their fingers
around my throat
jagged nails
tearing thin skin
cells hyperventilating
the jury faces away
long dark hair tumbling in waves
palpable tension—
i slide my fingers over it
pressing into the pads
allowing it to penetrate my heart
viscous burgundy melting
down the sides of vessels
like ice cream on 100° asphalt



* quote from lucille clifton's "it was a dream"

"like tranquil fish glinting underwater"*
there is beauty there
to be found
nudging dirt
and fallen leaves aside
beneath the lethargy
the gloomy skies
those hazy eyes
there is anticipation stirring
impetus and children yelling
the sweet taste
of strawberries
bicyclists pink flushed cheeks
and pant legs rolled
picnics
and courage
remembrance
yes, if you dig further
past the hail pelting
your icy skin
beneath the urge to stay
in bed veiled and still
lies new beginnings
forward motion
yin into yang
blooming
growth
and spring



*quote from lisa colt's "prayer"