snakes that used to
watch us from their dens
or slip away with a flick
of the tail now crouch
near well-traveled paths
eyes dilated with rage
with love banished
from the burrows
a boldness leans into
the light and strikes
at passing shadows
fangs injecting resentment
volcanic hate
this new society of serpents
we assumed were harmless
until they lost their respect
for each other and
themselves
you never have to stay airborne very long or fly very high low on gas? instrument malfunction? landing gear issues? you can usually glide in for a safe if not bumpy landing the danger of longer more a
Katheryn’s grandfather clock her once proud companion now sounds to me like a broken ballad for her shrinking world striking every hour on the hour a church’s procession song in long vibrating tones
vaccinated boosted well- distanced responsibly masked so it wasn’t my fault the physician’s assistant had the snivels that day he scoped my nose and ears felt the throat and proclaimed me healthy