Monday, April 21, 2014

Two poems ----- James Bertolino

Contrary Metaphysics


When the stalk
is more impressive than
the flower, what are we
to think?

If the high note
has more resonance
than the low, how
can that make sense?

Looking through the wrong
end of the microscope
will bring an order
that your knowledge has lacked.

Open a ripe peach and
chew on the pit.
Reach for a black speck
between your toes, look
to your dearest friend
and sigh, "This is it."




What The Dragonfly Told Me



We don’t mind the beetles.
The mosquitos are fakes.
The correct balance between sunlight
and moisture equals food.

As you know, we have wings,
and when the breeze has throttled
down, we are the undisputed
champions of the air.

When you’ve noticed we’ve settled
on a tall stalk of grass,
or fuzzy cattail, it’s hands-off!
You don’t pet a dragonfly.
And don’t be shouting, or we’ll
sew your mouth shut.

Also, it would please us
if you didn’t laugh when you see
two of us conjoined while aloft.

When we’re in the mood for love,
you can just move along—get back
to your wood and glass traps.
This delicious world
was not made for you.







1 comment:

  1. I enjoyed ALL of these! Great mix of perspectives here. Strong, honest writing. Five Willows always comes through with good stuff!

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