Dropped

A poem about a broken vase.

Released the pieces of the porcelain vase
depart on paths they’ve waited to pursue
since first enjoined to hold a shape in space:
shrapnel to its own ballistics true.

John Barr’s poems have been published in six books, four fine press editions, and many magazines, including The New York Times, Poetry, and others. John was also the Inaugural President of the Poetry Foundation. His newest book, The Boxer of Quirinal, was published by Red Hen Press in June 2023. You can view more of his work at johnbarrpoetry.com and on Instagram (@johnbarrpoetry). Buy the book.