Oh July - July 28, 2024

when cicadas buzz-saw the air

and daytime becomes the air popper

and you the kernel of corn

when beaks and mouths stay

open from sunrise to sunset

and panting is a mantra for survival

when the sun is no longer an egg

but the frying pan that burns days

to a crisp and everyone skitters

over sidewalks  tightropes shade 

drools for pools and ice in drinks

when dusk is a sacred blessing

and yet the epiphany of darkness

remains a moon-face of pity

you know August is still to come