Hark

Again we anchor
Coil and rancor
Offer visage
Smile with canker

Don the garment
Silky sleeves
Yoke of armor
Exotic weaves.

Hear the audience
Rumble and call
Spread emollience
O’er face and all.

Steps like spider
Toward the curtain
Nervous fighter
Nothing’s certain

Out in the open
Lights come on
Shadow taller
Woes begone.

​Now they’re captive
By your design.
Words and gestures,
Held in repine,

Dance off like moths
To brighter heights.
Leave empty husks
In bright footlights

12/29/20