Swing Poem by Alizon Kiel

Swing



1.
Once a child, I cast myself out above the playground

Legs pumping
Forward, then back
Forward, then back
Forward, then back

Upper bodies pitch the other way
Back, then forward
Back, then forward
Back, then forward

Higher and Higher
Wind threads Wind

Back, then forward
Forward, then back

Effortless eyes close in on soft sight
Another skyscape recedes

Back, then forward
Forward, then back

Higher and Higher
Wind threads Wind

Back, then forward
Forward, then back

Breath shortens
Back, then forward

Torso lengthens
Forward, then back

Quickening begins
Humming electricity rattles the ribcage
Traps spring open in concentric fiery pools and sparks

The soul forgets its tether

2.
Physically we are mutinous and disloyal

One pause
A brief lean into an ebb
Finds tips of shoes crashing into gravel
Dust less settled
Jarring at chains unforgiving

Once children, we are left staring at thin socks
Agitated and gray

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