*****

Recorded Reading (1:40): https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/121bljbsugedu1wic1fbq/Unpatronized.mp3?rlkey=7xonpfw8r8tf0d0w38ul9qww2&st=lnn120qt&dl=0

*****

Unpatronized

Perhaps I wake up in the night
Shivering with cold
Blankets notwithstanding —
These bones are tired and old

Maybe I’m made miserable
By tormenting insect itch,
By inability to bathe —
Homeless life is just a bitch!

Maybe I am so exhausted
Incessant inspection by
That even simple conversation
I no longer even try

It might be that I am destined
Never to know any more
The simple, sweet security
That I knew before

But something higher I have earned
Something have more precious won:
When the time eventuates
To give opinion on

Any in the subject range
Human diversity of
I remain free to defend
Unconditional love,

Ascending inspiration
And healthy boundaries
Without the low temptation
Aught paymaster to please

And, as with words, my actions
I may bring unto
All that’s best and highest
In my experienced view

— Deprived of every comfort
But the animal
At least of my authentic self
My words and actions may be full

*****

This poet presently lives at a fraction of her nation’s poverty level.

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