Is a poem
also a short story
but in a language
of a different complexion
about life
in every unique facet
and phase
its mystery, poignancy
its joys and tears
its sorrows and tragedy?

Every poem then
is a plot
the poet charts
his territory
where man looks
at himself, at others
at the world and universe
in awe and wonder
in fear and terror
in clarity or ambiguity-
the human heart
he explores
nothing escapes
his unflinching scrutiny-

verily
a poem
is a short story.