The wasps
have set up housekeeping
in the space of my neglect
where echoes
muddle meaning
so rage
twists on itself
mere white noise
now
against my cheek
thrum of old neon’s
welcome
unto darkness

venom papered over
only just

this

But yes, speak to me of cowardice
and its knowing confines
throw your puppetry against the wall
let the light play wise

then

shadow-stained
urge me to endurance

venom papered over
only just

this

.