father’s day
for the multiplying cicadas and my father
in the crowded hospital room. father’s day
for his father in the bed lilting under morphine
and sensation / pulling his oxygen out absently
father’s day for my father’s brother
cupping his father’s hand as soon
as he runs into the room. reciting
how good of a father he has been
to all of us / all of them. floating his tender
flower-named
baby who has newly
made him father
in front of him. out of drugged dream
to face ice blue eyes of new generation.
peering / both ways. father’s day again and again.
drone of doubled population / insects shedding veils
of past life / singing / all
together
5 thoughts on "father’s day"
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Really a touching poem, River. Nice tribute to all the fathers.
The cicada analogy is a very nice touch on this poem. I really enjoy reading your work.
I agree with Philip: cicadas bring an immediacy to the poem and elevate it with symbolism. I also look forward to finding your poems each day!
A gorgeous poem, that conclusion is absolutely stunning.
I agree with Shawn.