Hammer

Hammer the blisteringly hot iron

even as the peaceful breeze passes by.

Weeping willows lackadaisically sweeping side to side will wonder

what may have gotten in to you.

Keep your head down,

eyes focused on the glowing crimson ore.

Listen to your pumping heart,

and know that you are alive,

beating against the stillness.

10.15.2025

Cut

walking in darkness,
mountain-high giants
silently all appear around.
‘can you make the cut?’ they ask.

‘sure why not’ I answer
while my standard still glows
I stare at my hands both
bloodied by both fresh and old scars

12.19.2020