i turn the corner of a resin covered neighborhood
and see the slender dogs
hungry
looking for the meat off bones of those who never understood the meaning
of drive by shootings.

i close my eyes and wander down the sidewalk
feeling the breath of desire
lurking
waiting for the slightest hesitation of faith so they can pounce
and devour their supper.

i mutter a psalm or two under my breath,
wishing i still had the crucifix necklace
given to me
for a confirmation gift too many years ago in celebration
of my step into the light.

and as an itch develops in the nostril of my nose,
i feel the teeth nashing
blood
splinters of what used to be my leg spreading across the sidewalk
of a resin covered neighborhood.

03/14/2009

Posted on 03/14/2009
Copyright © 2024 Jared Fladeland