I've been writing this novel For a long time As long As I have Been alive Centered in lead Scratching on paper Cursively engaging Building in plot Filling in the margins With side machinations Occasionally Pausing Lingering on a particular line While taking the care to design A bookmark (Bookmarks Those crafty place keepers Designed in paint and pen ink Thicker than page Indenting the chapter Permanently altering The binding) Ornanate slips of cardstock Decorated In delicate flourish Complex mandellas Sacred geometric design This novel I am writing It's leafs dogtoothed Still awaiting it's leather Porcupined and thickened throughout Promises To be the intrigue of a lifetime If only for the art itself