COOPER'S HAWK

looking out my window this morning
ready to settle at the table with my
first cup of morning coffee, fixating about
what I had not finished last night, just then
I saw a coopers hawk, small, taut, brown and
white, spotted chest, poised, stone-like
on a fence rail the length of my yard, its
short powerful wings, pliant by it's side
it's hellish yellow eyes, searching for
any signs of; even the subtlest of movement
that otherwise might not have been detected
it didn't take long for what happened next

i watched it all in wonder, forgetting about
the blank pages laid out before me, coming into
view a chipmunk scurried  along the yards
perimeter believing itself discreet hoping it was 
safe hidden beneath the brown decaying leaves
that had settled helter skelter, but the cooper's hawk
assumed otherwise, its plan coming to fruition
with a commanding stealth, razor precision
it rushed the pile of leaves and shot sky ward
just like that, leaving no wake, gone out of sight
before the disturbed leaves had any chance to settle back

by Michael Perry

DISPARITY

such a picture perfect
with windows, small house, garden
on a hill, blue sky, green grass

plenty of open spaces
acres of land, fish in a nearby stream
room to grow, fresh air, the stars at night

displayed on a rack with other magazines
has a price tag unknown
out of reach for many, except the very few

by Michael Perry

From a Hill

from a hill that gives chill swept
by the pacific northwest sea lays
below me the view appearing endless
except for once in awhile the
letting down of deciduous leaves
that fall from the single
sullen yew; in life mistreated
by weather and age yet, stays
entrusting the visitor, to find no disappointment
from this vantage it keeps hold
as for my gaze, anywhere else
would simply pale in comparison
as I stand here and now

By Michael Perry

THE BOYS

boys own this town, as they gather here, use their measured steps
meet at the corner, they own it--hot shots-looking around, ready to
keep their circle tight- tip top-from the looks; up to no good-

in the middle of the day, on a hot summer afternoon
with the agitation level at fever pitch, u don't breathe
for no matter, you can feel it, air, thick, like gun metal grease
the passersby, keep their heads down, walk on, click clack, run

if someone does decide to make a play- will they be prepared?
may be,or not -  give them a reason, just because, it will be quick-
watch- one itchy -trigger fingers it, lovingly-stock still, say the word
- the boys are ferocious- ready, prowling up, down, on the make

eyes are watching, up in their blood adrenalin pumped- fear them
zip zap, narcissistic concrete kings- looking for a fight don't even think
if you do blink- ****** on a zigzag -paranoid-deer in the headlights look
mindful, of the silence; ready set,punt- like a deadly-riff raff; game play

if anyone wants to try- u face an arsenal, of full armed-boys, trigger happy
you have been warned, runners will take on all comers; never the boys fault
they stake claim, come fully stacked-racked- making streets on this side of town

- so if you dare- be a pop, pop, bang- bang-hotshot, u be flippant stare down
the barrel of a gun-piece of cold metal steel, hot tempered, say your prayers- quick-
for if you -  made that fatal mistake-no u-turn, when you go cross their piece of turf

by Michael Perry

IN THIS MOMENT

out the window
as I sit and observe, the start
of dawn-still moments away- with the
silence claiming, I will obey-pay
attention with senses more attuned
pick up on the subtleties of floor
to ceiling-as the shadows and light
-bring into focus, the untouched; as such
the dust motes from the day before that
trail along the ungrained wood floor, I missed
to the beating of my heart, once ignored as
it beats it's echo- deep within my chest, of the feelings
of abandonment, to the reasons unexplored till now
and my longing for what-I am unable to
recall - all within these moments, of here and now  

By Michael Perry

THE BABE AND THE BEAR

there in the woods-with secret eyes
made aware, to the deepening dark
that is filtering in, comes a sound made  
from out of nowhere appearing,  as this
changeling; a babe swaddled, under the
encrusted outcropping of rock; placed
there in it's sanctuary, by whom, no one
knows- no matter though, as the story continues
in the silence of deepening woods cleaved by
the dew gently gathering as it falls against the rock
face-in staccato time , to create a  wordless lullaby
all the while to make the baby doze-that is
until, along comes,  a she bear- who pads
through, she sniffs for a scent, and finding one
similar yet not;  like  other scents, found there
in the wood, she sees this babe, she approaches
coming close as she dares, as her warm breath
delights the baby making it coo,  she reacts as any
mother would in the circumstance, with the instinct
to protect and defend;  this little one, out of necessity
from any outside force; so all the intruders prepare to be
put on notice as she  settles in closer, using her thick winterized
coat  as the blanket, to keep them both warm;  and the baby
looks on with love - she sighs contented, as both close their eyes

by Michael Perry

BLUE

I called you on the phone
when you didn't answer, I left a message instead
needed to hear your voice, just one more time
I'm so sorry baby, so sorry for what I said
I wanted to explain
no matter what it takes
I really miss you, I made a mess
without you here, next to me, my heart will surely break
I need you to believe
when your not around, where do I go from here
feeling like the color blue, what can I do
don't you understand, why can't you see
I'm so sorry for what I said
I'm such a fool
what was I thinking
when I didn't say I love you back, when I do, baby, I do
it never crossed my mind
I didn't check with my heart, I just assumed
now the pain of losing you
is tearing me apart- instead
I need you to believe
when your not around, where do I go from here
feeling like the color blue what can I do
don't you understand, why can't you see- let me spend
the rest of our lives- making it up to you

By Michael Perry

MORNING IN AMERICA

this morning seems like every other
an alarm clock chimes to remind, so
rub away the sleep, pull back the covers

and this day begins, not looking as you may think
shades of an indifferent stranger, staring you down on
the train, whatever you do, stare back, don't blink

still and all, just get up, rise and shine, no ones to blame
so force yourself, if you must, take it all in stride whatever
you tell yourself, like the rest of us, we never complain

so don't even try, it won't matter , for all the lies  
we tell ourselves, can't let it bother you
for no matter what else you will do in this life

you can't change the fact of death and taxes, so no hysteria
it's a just a matter of fact in your life...unless?
so dig in rise and shine welcome to morning,  in America

By Michael Perry

FOUR LETTER WORD (version two)
we believe
albeit crave-to remain- once defined- we plead
forever- I and you- hard to explain-we give it
receive it- state it in our prayers
we live it –keep it- all in the name of love
so profound
lost to the stars-we will remain
standing in awe
a word used for devotion
spoken for or used with the eyes
a word
to be lost on a page
fighting back to be heard
most powerful- having no comparison- to live
made invincible- in small dose-or a physical reaction
heaven or hell
the pain and passion
upon the alter-of wanton devotion
a night or a life time- most symbolic
fueled by emotion-made to testify-praise love
spaces filled-as in the blood returns
synapses burn- we surrender to- je t’aime
bold and blessed- stay forever- heart beat
saved by-embrace it- for the moments we create
love so chaste- breath taking-swept away- memories made
all in the name of- love

By Michael Perry

THIS MOMENT IN TIME

next time you
step outside at night, look up
into the infinite sky to see
hundreds of thousands of stars
as they twinkle and burn endlessly
each and every night, a constant reminder
then step out on a night, when all
the stars fail to shine, disappeared, just not the same
what happened to them all
where did they go, that's how, i am
feeling right about now in this moment in time

by Michael Perry

He said                      She said
   what was said- by who
when, where, what day, time
accusations                ***** shame
such a crime                       time goes by
            water under the bridge
            or fueled by animosity
           turning into a- blame game
                   no one wins
he said                                    she said
        - round and round- it will go
                  in a vicious circle
                 -how to explain- court appointed
***** laundry- tossed about- shouting over each other
having no end         and so it goes- little pieces
            of a marriage-that once was
                                                             ­ thrown away

By Michael Perry

DRUG

Shorn walls of cracked plaster nondescript, punched through holes
out of an anger imposed, you try to feel superhuman
as you get ready to fly high, month after month, now over ten fold

so here comes the let down, again, sooner not later, get
yourself together, tough lessons learned, as peaks of sun
filter  through onto treadbare floors, feeling lost, with no outlet

laid out,  crumpled on the unmade bed, your worst nightmare realized
try to get up- not so easy is it?,  hey, brains says maybe another score
will do the trick, one of hundreds past, still you think about it, visualize

and there are side affects, not to overlook, skinny white arms, bruised
up and down, no place left, with deflated veins exposed, still
play it for numb, dumb down the pain, pull on that brass ring, you may lose

still as you shake, take another chance, maybe its time for a little praying
with your  head down, between your knees, eyes closed, closer to God
unable to realize, with labored breaths; you, undecided, your bodys craving; still more

By Michael Perry

LOVE IN THE TIME OF A PANDEMIC

there was a time-out of a not so distant past
where one simple act, currently abandoned
lies anonymous, still then, once a pleasantry
to each other, now;  this feeling  lost, to us
an act of kindness, we all once apportioned
with each other- a common emotional binding
one to the other, between us; a piece of humanity

-and he reaches for her hand warmly, to squeeze
she slightly; is startled, unprepared, not expecting
from his touch-their contact of skin on skin, once
thought harmless; a common joy, made to  give a
measure of reassurance-now shunned; still-she
reacts back, to his comforting act of kindness, they
now share- with this one gesture, his compliment
to her, with science put aside;  for the good of mankind
they continue holding hands; they both smile- testing
the current train of thought- all for loves sake- accept this or not
as reality-sets in; will it be the start of a keening sense of loss
-to all  other simple acts- this common sense of dignity, we shared
now suffer through;  for how long? - through no fault of our own

by Michael Perry

ANOTHER TIME

wish it was-but it's not, so why not, just stop talking
can't we- how about-turn back time, come on, be real
while we wait for a glimpse of it; of something better-huh
a quality of life, a little sum, sum, more, half of a wish-
to hold out hope, how about today- is it a waste, to
think, maybe, just maybe, no, not now, come on, stop
your a downer, I'm a realist- so when then-soon? -no
it's none of those- why, not just another time; a pipe dream
of what could be- , so we wait, - still  we wait, waiting for what?
this here - right now, nothing feels good, as we stand toe to toe
there's no anticipation, we get in line; suffer through, with the rest
for we are the miserables- the in-betweens of what-when, u care?
maybe, another time- could be, whatever you say- I am not like u
half glass full, not me-I am empty, I got nothing more- so we
walk, continuing, heads down- hunkering against; while, the guy
next to me nudges; he asks almost embarrassed, not quite, can you
spare me a dollar for a cup of McDonald's coffee? I tell him, sure, I've
had my share of anger fueled caffeine for the day-i am trodden, fed up

By Michael Perry

LOVE LEFT IN REDUX

In those moments that held us cold and sober
where the silence crawls, apathy becomes the thrill
demanding all our attention, realizing the fight
in us was finished, a bitter pill we swallowed, moreover

to have a love you can't get back, our paradise lost  
a love left in redux, now a casualty, the final cost

like a half past moon, no reason to stay
we have nothing left to savor or hinder
with our tongues silently rendered, why
didn't love stay, paying the price, no say

love was a conversation in passing, no pat answer
we lift the flag of surrender- as love goes down under
if it wasn't enough, for us both, this love, we shared
a love we once devoured, to fight or flight, now a blur

to have a love you can't get back, our paradise lost  
a love left in redux, now a casualty,  the final cost

honesty our only option, with hearts laid out on the sleeve
while in the morning after, it was the wedge to drive us away
truth or consequence, was it you, or was it me, maybe both or
a little bit of happenstance, a part of our growing make believe

to have a love you can't get back, our paradise lost  
a love left in redux, now a casualty,  the final cost

By Michael Perry

FORGOTTEN LETTERS
pieces of a memory, lack of any  sound
unwilling to keep,  together no-more
in the letters uncollected, -still bound

you wrote of beginnings, any unknowns
with promises not kept, left  in blind faith
while I  all but wept, waiting, feeling exposed

what could I expect
how would I know, what if
so I sat there, to ponder; feel nothing-what next

the silence enveloped
to swallow me whole
I took pen to paper, as written words flowed

to make my peace
emboldened still more
I untied the yoke -of your strangle hold

by Michael Perry

LOVE ON  

in the warmth of a first kiss  
or the chill of a relation in flux
we were better then this

with everything we have known
once truly believed in, our love slowed
each leaf of passion, fallen to the ground

what is left to say
as we stand like strangers
here now, arms out- kept at bay

we cannot explain
for being careless with our love
is it possible, have the strength to change

can we love on,  or have dreams deferred
save it within reason, have a plan
somehow make it right; explain the unexplainable

do we realize this
or apologize in vain
when feelings hurt-whose to blame

who were we protecting
with words that trivialize
emotions caught upending

can we love on, give up all we had
or should we make another go
face it all, the good, the ugly, the bad

by Michael Perry

Night Fall- Sunrise

Where it all
comes together; the
in between time
where the heart
longs for love; the
body complies, in the
memories rush coming
alive to aid the flesh, by
touch-deep down in the fire -of ones core  

by Michael Perry

untitled (for you know who)  09082020

thought i  knew of love-or just
the mention of the word- what
does it mean- truly deep down-back then
I had no idea, until I met you- the love of my life-
you-who has evoked so many feelings; inside my head-body, soul
having taken our vows- to understand-you are God's gift to me
you are the love that makes me so high -ready to touch the sky
I would name a star just for you-nothing will ever feel the same
all because of you, I would  sacrifice my life- simply, for
the ground you dare to walk upon-I have been blessed
-me for you, so with the on- coming years- ready for us to look
ahead- know with each day that passes- my heart still beats
and my pulse quickens faster, even after all these years, it will always happen- each and every time you walk into the room

by Michael Perry

ELEGY

as the dusk heightens against an early
winters backdrop, she walks, her head down
as she thinks of; of him, he so full of presence of
life itself, bigger than he; entering a room and
so quickly noticed, she smiles at that; of him, of them
how happy they were, planning each day together
never thinking it would end like this-she walks past
the lines of river birch, and scrub, as singular leaves
brush past her shoulder; she enters through the gate
to the small church yard and the cemetary beyond
within a stones throw, she stands in front of a stone
with a familar name, husband, son, father- as she reflects
on a life not fully lived- had she only known; on what could
have been, but will now never be- as a cold drizzle distracts her
on further thoughts of him, she turns with sentiments now lost into
the air itself- - she walks on alone arms folded against her chest
as she steps back into the approaching night

by Michael Perry

I SHALL NOT WRITE AGAIN

i shall not  write again, i can hear
myself say, is this the end
when the words fail to materialize
on any page, i am angry with myself
sad withdrawn, what  is happening to me
there used to be a day when, i would
literally see words write themselves, and
now nothing, what am i to make of it
i am beginning to feel spooked, i have heard of
times like this, but not expecting it for myself so
as i sit here wondering what is next for me- i hear
in the other room, the clock on the wall tick tock away
and so i smoke on and on endlessly, trying to cope
all of which creates an unhealthy haze surrounding me
beads of sweat gather at my brow, i can see for myself
this is real as i bear witness to a blank lifeless empty page

by Michael Perry

STRUCK DUMB

i am   struck dumb
at a loss       for any words
first time in my life -   nothing comes
my mouth is silent-   as my eyes
keep recording - reacting to  it all                                                  
-horrified -  at the audacity, of what I see-  
playing out - in real time-one hot mess
each day and night- can't get it out of  my mind
                    
                        I can only think:

what the f**k have we done to ourselves and our posterity

- it all seems like a bad dream- from which
any normal person would hope to wake from-
and yet we sleep on, walk through- I am dumbstruck-
wondering how we ever got here - wanting
more then ever to quickly move on-and still we stand
ignoring the facts- that are staring at us straight on
                   so as matters keep going south-
                                
                                    i hereby testify:        
                  
   to future generations- heed our stupidity
   and reconcile - what is coming your way-   I apologize
to you for every adult living now, I  can only hope
you are able to forgive, if it was me- I
would sign off with my *******; but I know you
won't do that-I wouldn't blame you if you did though- instead
I know you will roll up your sleeves, ready to take
matters into your own hands and fix everything-    we could not!

By Michael Perry

OF YOUR LOVE

each piece of me
I have given to you

at a time, of myself in this
I freely relinquish

my body and soul
always ready and willing

coming to terms, I have abandoned all else
for the sake of this, there is no compromise

to this end for love- you are, I sought out, we are made to endure
from the ordinary, to every star shine, the moon and back to earth
surpassing all- for no other, reminded, we, forever and always

by Michael Perry

THE COUPLE

There once was a couple
-a fat man and his skinny wife
constantly smiling at each other
they are so much in love -with
life itself, everything feels so complete
today is a sunny day, a good day for
lunch in the park, they spread out a blanket
preparing a feast for two, as they do this task
the fat man, brings a clenched fist to his chest
and his eyes go wide, he drops his half glass of wine
and the skinny wife steps forward, coming to his side
she quickly yells for help to no avail, from the passers-by
so then,  the skinny wife remarks to herself, how permanent
that death feels  -unlike this beautiful day  and the love
of her life, she knew- facts remain, life and days are fleeting at best

By Michael Perry

ONLY THE PAPER

I have only the paper left by you, each line for line
in that perfect script your known for,  every word
so precise thought-out, telling, still, what could be
said, the damage now done, I was left unprepared to
have this note-from you-and like that; gone, all the
possibilities unfulfilled, the good, the sweet-the
what could have been's, your note left for me to read
in that  cursive font, so recognizable, right away, in your
do it that way style, just so you, prepared in ink, already
beginning to dry, your words blur, while I read each one
bleeding through  blue as the words , are lost I cry, watching  
as your perfection stated in cursive disappears, right before my eyes

by Michael Perry

MAKE RIGHT THE WRONG

on days countless, empty headed- would
lead into something random, where
I am not complete, of missing a
thought or two, a slight remembrance, here
there, comes a flicker of light, to come; go
there-into this dizzying fog; to consume-to
over come me, in an instance, no control
taking every word from out of my mouth- each syllable
missing their cue, to where, I am, I was, what now
for losing them; into the air- this mixing jumble
of words sentences going no where, as you sit
watching helpless, with just your simple touch
it steady's my focus- to make right the wrong

by Michael Perry

TAKING A WALK

in the city visiting  to take my mind off things
for a just little while, so i thought maybe taking a walk
would be enough to clear my head, on this day somehow  
i took a wrong turn veering off  the usual walkabout
it was early spring, with no coat  still i felt confident
as i looked to recognize  a landmark or two, i was
sweating bullets, soaking through my tee-shirt
as a little voice said stay calm, while i clearly was
not- crossing over into a state of panic, it was mid-day
with time on my side-still i   could not figure out how
i had  made such a mistake to lead me this far a stray
by now i had walked for quite a while, feeling parched
i wanted something to drink, so i looked around, the
neighborhood was typical, close together , lots of two stories
with front facing porches, i sat down at the nearest one
hoping no one would mind, within a minute, my breathing slowed
my pulse beat a little less hard, then from out of nowhere, stood
a person over me and i looked up, to see, they were dressed
in a white robe, diaphanous see- through, like a cloud, i blinked
then they called me by my first name, i thought: who can this be?
the voice was reassuring and put me at ease, they said you walk so fast you need to slow down, i asked why? because they said there is no rush you are already home- i was confused, my mind  began to swim-while up ahead- i saw a commotion with lots of people gathered around milling about  i stood up from where i was sitting, i decided to walk over there -i heard people say- he never saw the car - he must have  been confused, to walk  right in front of it, as i looked over i saw someone lying in the street who looked like me, as if i was sleeping  but  surely that cannot be  as i was standing right here, and the people continued to walk right by me as if  i was not even there, someone else said - such a shame he was not from around here, no one here recognizes him- soon i heard the sirens  and  the crowds started to stir  then break a part a little more in order to let the officers in- they started asking questions
while, taking down notes, then i felt  a soft tap on my shoulder, it
was the stranger asking me  if i was  ready, i began to feel calm, reassured as the surrounding voices  waned, we turned around to  walk back the way i had come, thinking i was lost, turns out i wasn't at all, and with each step i took, I felt myself, grow strong becoming more alive, if that was possible to feel ten or more years younger too

by Michael Perry

FROM A REFLECTION
From a reflection lost in shadow
casting-forlorn, melting into night
we continue along the vacant beach
coming here; together, we carry the weight
both of us hold, with  no words to come
we shiver in silence, up against the cold
deep in our thoughts over reminiscent loss
to carry us along, needing to let go as
the pounding surf speaks in echo repeat
echo repeat;  only to leave us, susceptible to
undertow- to submerge us, unable to breathe
we can't go back, the way we came, we walk on
as if by now a simple refraction of light will give
us a moment more, to realize- turn day into night
with the moon up above, in circumspect, the only
witness to our trial, we will leave each foot fall to
fade, like this life, we are, lost to the incoming tide

by Michael Perry

FOUR LETTER WORD (version one)
could be a blessing or a curse
or possibly a misdemeanor
when we take a chance
pen all our hopes on this four letter word-love
a word of devotion, one syllable
ready to fly high- keep us grounded
it’s small but yet has instant recognition
a four letter word so simple- yet profound-love
a word- left on a page
lonely without a sentence structure-it functions
to come in between I and you
a four letter word to have and hold with no compunction-love
whether it is fact or fiction
a call for action will be needed-deep down
something happens-a physical reaction
a four letter word- to make a point- taken serious- or just throw it around –love

By Michael Perry

WORDLESS LOVE

in the spring of my youth, I
spied a quiet moment-I wasn't
supposed to see between
the two, they were speaking in
quiet tones- in the kitchen by the
sink- early light filtering in-I
was unable to make out- what
was said- but it was their bodies
which caught my eye; their bodies
spoke volumes between the two
he looked steady, commanding
into her eyes-raising her chin
looking eye to eye; his focus
on the words he used to comfort
to reassure-while she; relaxed her
body felt the reassurance, as he
wiped her tears away with his thumb
and they stood like that for the
longest time seeming an enternity
but it probably wasn't-she with her
head against his chest, he clung on
taking the full weight of them both
the two becoming as one-and in
that moment- I knew of wordless love

by Michael Perry

WHAT OF LOVE

what of love
let this be our distraction, as we willingly
give sway-to the heart, of it, playing a part

what of love
a source having claim will, with no objections to-who knew
we have only ourselves to blame

what of love
being bigger than us both, to speak it- we dare not
without having to compare, there are no words that come close

By Michael Perry

LIKE WATER (for Robin)

your love for me, is like water, weightless
it has kept me breathing, to feel alive

with each year taken-  I am carried away
swept on an endless journey- that keeps me near

as we continue in a kindness learned
we have shared together, ready to reaffirm

I have your smile to guide me
keeping me within reach -each and every mile- for I would walk

again again- as it brings me closer -we will never
be a part, we are here-in the moment, bigger than us both

you are my, I am yours -this is our forever and always
a gift -  to each other-in life, this love, instance of renewal

by Michael Perry

HORSES

wild horses running free
speed and dignity, proud
mighty animal beast
unbound, to roam
without fear, unchained
the souls blaze with fire
power unrestrained
as lightening strikes
having legs of muscle and sinew
ripping at the air
this is their home
a desolate place
courage, above all
swift as the night
in silhouette, over a setting sun.

By Michael Perry

WORDS

there is something more
out there- we lack still-where did it go
harder to find-
we will never get it right- unless we treat words with respect

WORDS
when spoken, they matter- so say it with empathy
touch a mind- make it soar, make it think, tug a heart string
mean what you say, don't bend or twist- to suit yourself

WORDS
when written are meant with the heart's desire-  gives you a chance
to explore, your romantic side- or said with boldness, take a stand
show strength-one man's bond unbreakable to the other- to be believed

WORDS
used as iconic adornment on walls, or a building's face are for one and all
as the author asks us to live tall, dream big, to aspire for something more
words on monuments are meant to inspire, to make us bigger -then we are

by Michael Perry

HER FACE

all I ever wanted, I will never know
In a field of crow, that failed to scatter
while the ground lay covered with snow

In the stillness her breath rose with mine
climbing skyward, only to fall again as tears
Her eyes dreamed of conquest, through a filtered light

I touched her porcelain bone and alabaster skin
we danced, as the day spawned into night
a musical dirge played, only we could hear

I watched her body as it corrupted mine
her beauty held me spellbound, to the point of no return
I knew then, I would be lost; needing her to remain

all I ever wanted, I will never know
becoming the absolution, I had denied myself
In a field of crow, that failed to scatter, while the ground lay covered in snow

we danced, as I gave up all of my earthly rights
as if by a memory, her face retained its complexity
spilling over, in a kiss, her lips left mine insane

within the jagged harmonies broken by a stillness, to a fault
I let her go, the fear of losing her, to think I could have it all
then, she was gone, as the light, left my eyes, blind, denying heaven

as winter laid claim, I stand alone in this barren field
all the crows that failed to scatter
while the ground lay covered in snow

I live now to weep another day, truly lost
without meaning or in a days end, sleepless
her image gleaned, on flesh and bone, age and memory, no reward

with a sinner's heart, down on bended knee, All I ever wanted
I will never know in a field of crow, that failed to scatter
while the ground lay deeply covered in blanket of snow.

By Michael Perry

WORDPLAY

there was no wordplay
between us, on point
of fact, anything more
leading to full conversation between us-over the years
as the words became less and less
knowing ourselves;  as we do,  in the silence explicit
between us-felt reassuring, as a blanket to cover us up; it was
what we wanted, craved, coveted, expected of ourselves
until the day, you came to me, knelt down
with your hand on my knee, and began to cry still born tears
I knew then, our silent world would be shattered
without any words or objections, I held you; felt your heart beat with mine
we stayed that way as the day melted into night.

by Michael Perry

SHOOK

thought it strange
out of the ordinary, not here
as I walked, feeling unease
my bones given to an unnatural chill
on this hot summer night-walking
my pace, under foot, breaking leaves and sticks
heading back , only to turn, over my shoulder
what? maybe, once, twice,  just to
calm my nerves, why so paranoid- thought
I was fearless, except for tonight-why the change
as my level of concern grew, I cannot put
a finger on it-yet my heart quickened, first
a little, then a lot, for the first time in my life
with my age over matter, a possible concern, I
truly felt- helpless, moreover a little shook

by Michael Perry

NINETEEN SIXTY THREE

she brushes her hair
stares into the mirror
stroking, 98, 99, 100
doing it every night, like religion
believes in the power, she wields
her feminine mystique explored
without it, she is a woman flawed

by Michael Perry

TO THE WOMAN

I am only just a man-my head-in the clouds
feckless, unsure until-you came along, having
a plan-to steal my heart

to make a lasting impression of love
filled with cherished moments- I will carry with me
from head to toe, I am yours

as our life takes shape and size
made of many colors, in broad strokes
a journey-painted with no regrets

we are focused and in control
our destinies assured as the years, come and go
while the lines criss cross our face, a testament to time and place

as if it was yesterday, when we first met
you will always remain, my best friend
so let us celebrate with song and dance

drink it all in-with friends and family, gathered
we are comforted-by love's point of reference
to always to be there-you and I bound together

forever and always, each others; true north star


By Michael Perry

RABBIT HOLE

befuddled, and far back-
-memory slows
left to be-abandoned-
-the day erodes
when sleep does not come-
-as the feeling to
fall, fall, going-
-down the rabbit hole
till i come to, i -
-think, i think i am
in one piece-or does the-
-mind plays tricks, with my head
-real or not- am i ready to
see the truth, live it or die trying-

by Michael Perry

MY LOVE MY LOVE

my love, my love
we come together
two as one- you, I, rain or sun
we are weathered, little worn
for better for worse, my love
we have endured
in this life, you and I
my love, my love, my love
for this and that or anything else
of any matter, we have been together and back
we will love , we will love we will
always
love
each other
until
the end of our time

by Michael Perry

In The Night

there in the night-with feelings alive
because of you- binding our hearts
the sounds- of a familiarity
I speak your name- enunciate dedicate my life
when I touch you- touch me
take my breath away-skin upon skin
hold back- rush the tide
moon is full- white upon white
hot whisper- cold sheets
touch of collar bone-cleft of thigh
sweet desire- moments succinct
there up on the altar- love made real
the dawn is close- we are overcome
made out of memories-happening real
the tears spill- we are bound one to one
flesh made purpose- from one to the next
we continue in this way on and on- momentous two of us
ready to divide and conquer-  the riches of love explored

By Michael Perry

SHE BELIEVED

She believed in the sun and the rain
in order for every day moments to be made
she was stronger than I, left to place blame

we sat together, as she spoke up animated
out of this one conversation, she held my hand
out of her pain, she was stead fast-in order to placate me

on this day, she spoke in a voice loud and clear
giving from the heart, I cried while listening
to the detail of her interrupted dreams, her fears

It's been awhile now, as I speak her name, out loud
in this very moment- she suddenly crossed my mind
as the sun finally came out, while stubbornly hidden by the clouds

by Michael Perry

NEW YEARS EVE; A CONSEQUENCE

hurry quick, last day of the year
before the clock strikes twelve
say all that needs to be said before;

just a couple hours before
two lovers in a previous life
reconnect, over drinks, at
a familiar bar, soft light, warm fires
burning, intimate, beginnings of
a new beginning, they talked
as if, time never left, they held hands
where would this lead, into each
others eyes, they would look, capturing
that spark once lit

they decided to walk down town
capture the activities there, ring in the new year
as  they walked arm and arm, they were caught
off guard by a stranger brandishing a gun-he demanded
all their money, he refused, as the stranger gave a
warning, he still refused, a shot rang out, he collapsed
to the ground, as the stranger ran into the dark
she knelt by his side, where she wept in silence, there was
nobody coming, his last words to her, "if i had only known"
as the snow began to fall now in heavy wet feathered flakes
ready to cover up; a failed crime scene; now, fade to black

by Michael Perry

DANCE GIDDY IN THE RAIN

as the rain begins, it comes, with-out any pretense
it will fall innocent, persistent, ready to cleanse
so let it cling to the skin, to make as new-wanting
to satisfy, it will require a deep breathe, it will come
subtle , settle into it- in out out in-to lull, as you find
your quiet place, a safe space, listen in as all the
other background sounds disappear, let your breath regroup
and the  gentle breezes swirl, a compliment to the body and soul
-in you, or just the further fact of a celebration to life- so
don't hesitate to reach, to think- give in to yourself, as you
turn your face upward toward the sky raise your hands out
extend the fingers -be  prepared to praise the absolute feeling of
-just being alive, to feel it,  wash you clean, and in  that  moment
when the peace flows over, surrounding you in full, it will be time
to just- finally let go and -make you dance giddy in the rain, do it
for all your worth, be like a child from your past- in a youthful nod
to feel it again,  the fun you had-or if nothing else, start life
renewed in the facts, to acknowledge rain as a gift, once and for all

by Michael Perry

THE PEACE SONG

we are ready to be heard
we each want a say, not face confrontation
but if we must, we will, because we are not ready
to leave anyone behind, for the time has come

if we are ready, put all differences aside
take a stand, be strong, be steady, ready
toe to toe hand in hand, young and old; a rainbow
with a plan sung through words we have, a peace song

to stand beneath one sky, the call is strong
the tug to get behind fast, no it won't fade
as we come here, we deserve
to be heard, for what made this country ours

for democracy is for all, yours and mine
sing it together, come hell or high water
let us rally behind; a peace song, with voices raised
everyone must be heard, can you hear it, can you?

when we come together that will be the beginning
heed the call, walls will crumble, fall; let us have our say
forever is here and now, get ready, have raised fists
demand; stamp our feet on the ground, ready to be heard

within our action; through words and music
we put the world on notice, whatever the risk
for peace to come, it's within our grasp
as we watch, we burn a candle from every window

where all points of light lead, toward a brighter day ahead
we must, will not give up, ever be complacent, not sit back
realize the time is here, let us stand up for this; a peace song
without it, everything we fought for, held dear, or died, will be lost

By Michael Perry

SHE BECOMES

she becomes all the ways
to ease my mind, a place to lay my head
she becomes every song needing to be sung

She becomes  a starting point for love
melodies to be savored
she becomes all the words put into thought    

She becomes all the ways
to capture my heart, more than physical, she becomes
the music I hear, when I look into her eyes, it remains clear

She becomes the anchor I hold on to
when I need to save my life she becomes
a safe harbor I will drift lovingly toward      

She becomes all that I adore, this woman I would die for
she becomes every thought to keep my mind
consumed, she becomes the easiest decision made; a revelation

She becomes my one true love, to stand the test of time
having a  rhythm and rhyme, sweet singer of songs, she becomes
all the reasons why, I live and breathe, say a prayer for

She becomes, my once in a life time, in the moments experienced
my love and salvation, a driving force, so deep down, into my soul
she becomes, the fever I once caught, never truly recovering from

By Michael Perry

TO COMFORT AN OLD FRIEND

I am here today to comfort an old friend
we go way back -once, we took on the
world, anything was possible, we were best pals
like brothers, willing to do anything for
each other, over years and miles, no matter
what making it through we were invincible, so
we thought, and today I am  sitting by his side
holding his hand, to bring him comfort, ease
his pain for a time, to bring back our youth, that
everlasting prize in our folly we had, if just for
a moment, I will take him there, with each story
I will regale him, recalling memories, to recapture-our
eternal youth, once more,  drawn from a time capsule
I was turning back the years, just for him, I watch his eyes light up
he remembers the details, after a while , he squeezes my hand back
acknowledging it all, then his eyes tell me, enough for one day
he's tired, ready to close  his eyes, I look at him, beginning to
doze, so I lean in to his ear and whisper I'll be back, as I turn to go
his head against the pillow, I am comforted by the fact that
our friendship has survived everything, and so it will, even this

by Michael Perry

THE BEACH AT AUTUMN ON CAPE COD

in the miles of beach sand
only the seagulls and terns remain, this time of year
ready to, dip and soar- crisscross, they target

aiming for the sky
fly high above, or they skit, down along the beach
chasing the horizon at angles to confound

from the east to the west towering cliffs of sand
seem to conquer heights, eroding on the back side
giving sway  to the shifting winds

during a season in change, burnt oranges and browns clash
with the assaulted beach grass
at ones feet constantly, no longer trampled upon

here, where the water stays ice cold, most times
the whales rise and fall off in the distance lingering on
for one last riff until the harsh currents drive them away

and with each sunrise- sunset, life will run it's course
bracing for the bitterness of a north atlantic winter
and the dramatic changes of scenery that are still to come

By Michael Perry

OF HER 98 YEARS

of her 98 years
the dowager recalls, her life
all of it-still; with such vivid detail
recounting and recalling past loves-and of a life
thoroughly enjoyed-to it's fullest-having no apology
as she endured her life; with no passing
after-thought- if you want, she continues on
I could tell you so much more; if you'd like- as you
politely decline- then she,  with a passing of her
withered hand rebukes your acquiesce, as she turns
her head away from view; whether in contempt -or
pure disdain, as you sit bedside ignored-she then closes
her eyes taking leave-excusing your presence straight away

by Michael Perry