there's a small setback
my backpack is weighing me down
let me stop by an inn
and dance on my heels

this fever won't keep me for long
the innkeeper is a kind woman
she tells me she's my mother
and feeds me warm rice

I wait for the days my love feels
as natural to me as my writing does
no second thoughts
no need to edit
only momentary pauses
when I feel watchful eyes on me
when I'm performing for the invisible
men and women in my room

The ****** is in sight
and it's blinding like the sun
let's leave on foot
before nightfall