It’s National Poetry Month, and I’ve used the blog to celebrate in times past. As someone who’s kept a journal since she was 5 years old. I do think creating primary source documentation of this time in history is important, so as many days as I can, I’ll be sharing unedited, unrevised poems here throughout the month of April.
I forgot to post one yesterday, so today you get two for the price of one. No titles for these poems, just dates.
April 1
The apartment is quiet,
Except for the sound of my refrigerator running.
It’s keeping my cheeses cold and my gelato frozen
Waiting for me to visit throughout the day.
I have plenty of food in my pantry:
Pasta and canned fruit and staples to build meals
And dozens of unhealthy snacks
For when stress-eating is the only answer.
My clothes are clean and my makeup drawer stocked
As are my cleaning supplies, dishwasher tabs and garbage bags.
I look around at the cornucopia,
With its east and west facing windows
Ensuring I am never without sun
And though lonely, I am content.
How could I not be?
April 2
I knew it was coming and felt frustrated with the delay
“We all know we aren’t going back,” I texted innumerable group chats
“Just make the announcement already.”
Trying to play Fate–
If I speak it into existence, maybe Fate will laugh
“Think again, Julie. I can’t let you be right.”
Instead, Fate weeps.
“I’m sorry I couldn’t stop this for you,” he says.
So I sit with him, quiet.
We breathe in crisp spring air together
And sigh
As I let go of my plans
And watch them float away on the wind.
Julie Rowse 