Mary Cieslak

To my sister Julia, who will do great things...

We never had planned this
We never tried.
...

Whose name's uttered most in the street,
Whose heart had no nobler a beat,
Who moved all men unto their feet?
Caesar, ho! Caesar!
...

To Dad, Mr. Steele, and Ms. Herrin. You helped write this poem, whether you know it or not.

What is it that the fairies do
Wandering the woods at night?
...

One step into the ocean.

Two steps; in the shallows
Wading into the deep.
...

To Grandpa Larry

Standing there, all alone.
Because of you.
...

My brother and I secretly dance
When no one else is looking.
The he will bow and I curtsey
And then we continue working.
...

I’m dyeing a white rose black.
Such a pretty, perfect flower it was.
Too perfect compared to me.
...