Indeterminacy

Between roses,

only undercitizens —

the ongoing business

of Mumbai burning

— old ghost houses.

The hole she recalled

a window, the come-apart

of her masters.

Such little wildness left

in the marquee effect.

Colorful parrots caught

and sold in sleep.

Up and out again —

nine nights of dance.

Something shines on —

black and white ice.

In the midst of returns —

emptying school fields.

Midnight’s fast closing in —

and now’s the only time.

. . . . .

Poet: Susan Powers Bourne
Source: Between the Beautiful Forevers
Process: Excerpt table of contents