that sets all the bones afire.
They rise from behind the solar plexus
and from the space just between the hip bones
spreading outward upward downward inward again.
Feel them alight in the knuckles of the hands;
the roof of the mouth
the knees, the soles of the feet,
everything burning airlessly.
Eyes may well up water
enough to drown Vesuvius, rescue Pompeii
and avail nothing
to quench the flutter of glowing tissue wings
confusing the heart’s steady rhythm
and suspending breath in the throat.
Well, happy Valentine's Day, everyone—
Today's all about The Romance, isn't it? Depth can wait until tomorrow morning.
It can be a lot of pressure, trying to affix feelings to a single day. For me, this is my grandmother's
birthday. But I wouldn't refuse any honest gestures, would you?
If you've had butterflies over someone, you know how this feels.
If you haven't, I hope this one helps you understand someone who has.
Love, always,
Kathryn M.
Amor tussisque non celatur! And I've not concealed my love -- I wear it on my sleeve for all to see even when I wish I did not - could not. My husband and children see it seeping out of me at most inopportune times...like butterflies emanating from a private place, giving me away. I've stopped worrying about what others will think, though, and just let it fly.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful poem.
>cough, cough< ;) Samantha, you leave such thoughtful responses—it's wonderful to read them!
ReplyDeleteI'm told I do the same, all unaware...even when I don't have time to know I'm feeling anything at all. What, me worry?
LOL! Why, thank you, Kathryn. It's lovely to discover another with such a deep love and understanding of the power of the written word.
DeleteThis is really beautiful, Kathryn! Just love this poem to bits...I've read it 4 times now! :)
ReplyDeleteOh, I'm so glad you like it! Thanks for reading, and for leaving a comment—I look forward to reading more of yours, too!
DeleteK:)