sunrise

I’m taking back this black spot

Virginia Sunrise, photo by deb Ewing

I run a loose memory
like a fingernail
across your rugged terrain
broad shining ridge above
the desert scrub against
shady watery caves

I once loved that wide valley
high dimpled hills
unsown fields rippling
under burning sun

you drew me with a promise
not yours to give
but I took that & the city
consoled by metal streetlamps
and from elderly sidewalk cracks
I took the message meant for you

my girlishness craved
unfamiliar terrain
confused your dark ways
with an arroyo’s mystery
with love

I’m taking back this black spot
against the brownstones I hold no grudge
they raised me like kind aunties
’til my legs were strong

I forgive the city instead of you