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
That is absolutely gorgeous, whoever you are.
Got a book I can buy?
Thank you very much, whoever you are yourself.
If you must have a book, there’s The Drift. If you want fewer poems but a beautiful work of printed art, there’s Wind Intervals, if it’s still available from St Brigid Press.
This is so good, Poet. 🙏
Mei’s been on my mind lately. And it’s good to write something and think about things having a shelf life of more than a week’s worth of shock and outrage, too.
Lovely closure
Thank you, Lesley!
Beautiful work, Jeff!
Thanks, Chris!