Only 2

we struck

a Christmas bargain–

one for me

and slew

for you–

rapped up

in repurposed compromise,

loops to spare

&

bow to back

–address labels deemed irrelevant

the glass hours

splintering holidays

into ticking shards

October-November-December

shards that weren’t present

to track dates

–that seemed relevant

(but weren’t)

unlike a kaleidoscope, and

resembling a mosaic not in the least.

we spooned under table

after takeout

full hearts less than kind,

snickering

in mirthless rhythm. . .

all agape

as drumming boy

after

drumming boy failed

banned audition.