Needy

Tempered with ice.
The nibbles of little mice.
Crumbs left on the carpet.
Bums outside the market

Chew what you will spare,
Dusty fingers in the air.
I give and yet I cough
Knowing it’s not enough,

But will have to do
While struggling to pursue
More to life substantial.
This subscription has been canceled.

The vile left with poison.
Spooning to the boys in
Fluorescent tile dormitory,
Repentant and reformatory.

Take heart, little child,
The penance has been mild.
The sting and bruise will heal.
Leaving nothing to conceal

But the shiny inner plate,
Empty, because you ate
All your butter beans,
Knowing that this means

Nothing more is coming.
Push off the table, running.
Leap for an open door.
Here there is no more.

Your apple has its’ core.
Take it.
Plant the seeds
In soil that meets your needs.


2/7/22