Little rocks
(this poem is currently in competition)

Somehow I manage to stiffen, sustain
command a flexing and smiling
enough to keep vulnerability at bay.
For some reason I�ll be
rigid and strong, guarded:
I�m emanating fiercely independent
and to tell you the truth
I�m pleased, content
and alone.

So I was pretty well surprised
when passing a bistro on Thursday
I looked at the golden reflection
in the golden window
(dusk was bursting
on a cityful of passerbys
with momentary golden crowns and
golden eyes)

and right beyond that pastry
with the dark chocolate fine-lining
I noticed
that we�re all crumpled children
curled up in balls
knees to chest
head bowed down.

copyright 2001 by devon