the center of stone in hard rain
notes on escape
shield
as we step toward
the ocean
you grab my hand
for the first time.
once inside
you wrap
arms around me
as if i had warmth vast enough.
i have little for you. i’m
the one seeking
the center of stone
in hard rain.
i leave this body
for you to use, but
already i’m back
on shore.
—
2022
notes: edited by karen cooper / in college i read a line about the dry center of rock in hard rain, or so I recall. i can’t seem to find that poem to cite it here, but know, whoever you are, that decades on your image still defines the peace i am looking for.