Tuesday, October 30, 2012

Inclement Weather


For Ele:

Just three letters--
I wouldn’t throw your father
Into it even if I could:
You’re more balanced without him,
And anyways first names are fine.

Tuck those three perfect letters in your hand
And step out into the changed world
Intent to change and change with it.
Don’t be afraid of all the downed power lines and scattered signs,
As this is how they should be.

(If I’d remembered, I would have told you not to obey them
Even when they stood rigid in the ground like metal roots.)

I’d tell you to enjoy this freedom while it lasts--
To do anything (turn left when they say go right)--
But suddenly I’m not so sure.
It is dangerous out there.

If a morning comes when the birds stop chirping,
Don’t call your father,

Go find a man,
But don’t go looking;
It’s garbage men that come
To any tune.