Oranges and Reds

by John Godfrey

10:37 of a Friday morning
seems more grounded among
barren oak gingko
black cherry and ash
Research papers-over the tariff:
            One limb a pantleg seals off
in pantyhose
Transfusion juice
on tap at
the winter picnic

Fire and coals light
the pages all
oranges and reds
in which mother learns anatomy
Skinned-away muscles
like woven petals
Half man half woman
No aspect without danger
then peace beyond expression
you don’t live to see cuz
it’s not there that way