When I read Mei Yao-ch’en writing
In 1058 about his wife and son making

Roundcakes as protection against the eclipse
Banging on mirrors in the middle of a dynasty 

that created gunpowder and flamethrowers landmines
And grenades also paper money

I know that a poem will outlive this moment

Even if it’s about the moon which has never

Not shown up I may want to think there are
More important things to think about, I may 

Investigate and report and write and lose
Sleep waking worried on this same world my 

Children must inherit but where else will I 
Safely hurl this palmful of shadow