SURVIVAL IS ITS OWN REVENGE
for Jackie and Esther
and when air you breathe like manna
whole, serene, second-stride thresholds
of splintered light, mumbled hues through
tears. quiet hymns sung until trains
stop. arrivals aren't your glory
this road soon thin before third gear.
you've invented greater figures than those
fourscore foundling dreams so toehold.
arthritic, contrite, once wagging fingers
dumbfounded mute, once snakecoiled tongues
crazy crazy you like many dreamlashed
daughters, sons so even minute
confirmations, just a trembling clockstroke
not even revolution, just life's side
smiled wink, is a proof. is enough
to sing. to Shout. to work well
Akua Lezli Hope
