Emily as I prepare the Meal-Kit Super Smashed Burgers by Darren C. Demaree

In absentia

The woman with the most beautiful voice in the world Has stopped singing. She’s tired of the sound she hears Before anyone else, the bloom of each note in her mind And her throat; she cannot be astonished, singular In that regard. She may find whatever solace she wants In abdication, not least the knowledge there is greatness Occurring that has nothing to do with her. Being little Again, fine, the next-door neighbor to non-existence; Death will be as simple as asking for the cup of sugar We’re always short. The brown bread cools on the rack. Daisy Bassen