POEM: this poem

this poem

this poem is a stand-in
for an earlier, better poem

this poem has been watching
from the wings for weeks

this poem sees the scenes unfold
the same way every night

this poem wants only a chance
to step into the light

this poem is not as raw or
as honest as the other poem

this poem, however
is more palatable to the reader

this poem knows its role
knows also that roles are malleable

this poem does not say
what the earlier poem said

this poem is not covered in sweat
is not moaning and sighing

this poem will leave no trace
on the– but that would be telling

10 April 2013
Auburn, AL