Beset

rain begins

its sudden rupture waters down the wine

spine condenses

raises the hair on my arms

reminds me of my place

if I could sit very still

I might blend with scenic bricks

with wind

passed by, clouds purple bruised

the gods forgetting promises

forgetting my name

you become resonant

engage in lightning as a team sport

while the growl reverberates under my sternum

right where the panic claws

where it contracts and expands

your focus remains tree limb tattooing

sky sweep concussion

the last flutter of dandelion

a photo for your collection

I drink this murky wine

contemplate branding as a form of meditation

contemplate forgiveness as a form of misdirection

I am reminded that the gods forgot my face

long, long ago

rendering this tremble a mausoleum,

a fable,

a cautionary tale

with no moral and no resolution