Gel the Title - May 30, 2024

like you a poem needs a shower

before going out in public

to scrub off the dirt and blood stains

from its difficult stomp through the

forest of ideas and briars of words

that scratched and slowed it down

then a rinse and towel-dry before

slipping on a fresh piece of paper

maybe a little gel in the title

to make it stand out

other than that  it’s ready

to step out knowing at least

it looks clean  smells fresh

and is as presentable as possible

how a poem will appear

as homeless person or celebrity

quickly avoided or mobbed

usually though  it’s like the stranger

with an interesting smile

something sticks with you

as you walk away