Refusal Poem by Justin Tallman

I spent the night under a cold ozone
with a girl who couldn't accept it
she was buried neck deep in the soil
and I was lying above
relaxed and social

I tried to show her a fire fly
which landed in my palm
with trust
but she couldn't turn her head enough
to witness the friendly interaction

Buried deep in the soil
she doubts anyone could dig her up
and teach her how to move her arms
and legs

I offered, but she said
No

Quiet, and alone
thinking out the landmines
buried with her
in the fray