loitering in German is repulsive
always inebriated, even –
understand?

repetition and throat plug
pronouns (she gags on “du”
bleats “mein”)
exotic?  nah.  adored?

well

they tell me “das Gift” peals a
heavy cognate; it also
answers to “poison”

but Gifts in King’s
is “toxic” not
sorry
are – not – toxic

so flash me that
yellowbird
lather, anchor in strand

these quicksilver
nothings, murmured
honeydew venom


overheard myself last night
calling du but your scent
killed by mein pulse
almost fooled me, nearly

sounded like
the antidote
and other delicious gifts
you’ve given me