Observe and Absolve, Kyle Howey

OBSERVE AND ABSOLVE

Kyle Howey

Observe, the neighbor trees. Reach up and grasp the balcony edge, Peering, or gasping, I wonder If they see me.

Observe, were we better suited For something like this. So many dead, so many at risk, So many worse off families than mine.

Observe, cars still passing by, Workers with no choice, unlike me. I wish they could stay home, But some things have to be.

Observe, here I am peering or gasping At the edge of this current home. And I wonder whether I’m the one who’s doing fine.

Absolve, this shame because I cannot do more, While there is always a World more to be done.

Absolve, I don’t know when Or whether being quiet helps. To be sad, loud, or upset Is more a confession.

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Absolve, maybe the trees know, And already tell me What needs to be done, but I don’t listen well enough.

Absolve, I don’t want this guilt Rendering me worthless In sight of these kin, Tall brothers and sisters.

Absolve, with withering between Structures like being pressed Into the skin of history. The dent returns to what it was.

Absolve, the world is dying, And in dying, then I’m sure they insist I be less sorry with myself.

Absolve, for the sake of others, No longer simply windowed Witness, weary for them, Hanging on for dear life.

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Alicia DeSimone

Quaranzine