Mapping

The pigeons fly in cursive flocks, graceful arcs,
Except this one, gone ahead or left behind, in urgent solo flight.
Below a willow leans, thin and sparse, looking for sparks,
Like an addict in the morning's trafficked street.
A man like you hands me a urine cup, and sleeps.

I have told you before, here at the doorway of
A thousand unhappy homes: there is something more of place
Than time or space in loneliness. Come, reluctantly spend the day.
Look at the unconnected stars, the uncollected lights
Without name or home or constellation of their own,
And imagine a use with me for all that doesn't fit.

Larissa Shmailo

Back