DOGS FROM HELL

Even as we lowered ourselves

into the tub, the voice of the dog

set placemats on the table for two.

Yet I dreamed the finale more than what you wanted me to say

and whether you thought I was capable of anything good.

As I said, there wasn’t much to bank on.

Your usual get-up got the pigeons lost,

left cars circling abruptly in a trance.

Examine my pupils. Tell me what you see in me.

She drew a horsehair from her locket.

All of the things

that made me what I am

are here in queue

at the great gas pump.

Day was breaking off into night, spraying shards into the gloam.

My treasured memories settled into private patterns

in long arching rows of harmless maize,

dust bouncing off the olive trees bordering the field.

The old familiar road I used to go down was now closed or altogether gone.

Perchance I thought to contribute a verse,

but my crotch seared at the thought of importance,

cars being refueled like piglets at a trough of nipples.

I must have stood and watched the piglets at the nipples for a good hour.

I am thrilled that we will catch up soon

(at the service of a moderator).

Are there questions for the deposition?

Pointed questions are being put to me.

Am I going to be deposed?