Snow
This week, Andrew likes the Red Hot Chili Peppers. His parents are relieved that his Bieber phase seems to have ended; last week, every time they got in the car, Andrew would say, “De-spa-ci-to.” And so they would listen to “Despacito” on repeat.
Family Stickers
“I have never been able to understand why Americans need to make sure trailing traffic knows that they voted for Clinton, alternatively want to put Clinton in jail, or just really want to highlight the difference between heritage and racism.”
Morning in Seven Glimpses
“Evening stays in the sheets as Morning rises barefoot to set the kettle and run cold water down her neck.”
Trains
There is a certain passivity and convenience embodied both in the physical experience of train riding and in the indifferent machines themselves. Suspended between origin and destination: mandated leisure.
Teeth
He’s quiet, sleeping almost, naked and thin on the bed. I could leave and he wouldn’t notice, mouth open to the dark gun of his throat, teeth apart.
Lessons in Stupidity
“My eyes darted between the two security cameras on the roof. Despite feeling cynical lately about the effectiveness of government, I had a feeling that these cameras were both working and monitored around the clock. I felt so patriotic.”
Jennie from the Block
I’m always quick to spell out or clarify my name when it’s asked for. Call it my preemptive strike against the flicker of uncertainty in the barista’s eyes or the note of hesitation in the agent’s voice.
Two Truths and a Lie
“Truth number one: this is not a poem about you, I have never written a poem about you, I will never write a poem about you.”