Page 14 - ContrastFall1987-1988

WITHOUT A HOME

lam warm
And soft inside

Then expelled!
In danger of becoming hard and cold--

I was used and then tossed away
Left to fall to the ground

And await uncertain terrors.

Soles of feet with sandpapered scratches
Trampling around me like terrified elephants.
You avoid me like I'm the scum of the earth.

I want to cry out that you wanted me once.

A book drops,
Nearly invading my space on the carpet floor.

A cart's wheels roll over my lower body,
Severing parts.

Am I never to be free of this pain?

I see the end coming.
Overshadowing my mutilated body,

A self-confident foot
Smushes me between the fibers of the rug.

I cling.

Take me with you!!!!

I stretch and strain,
Holding on to my new home,

With my last strength.

Light filters once more into my world,
As the oppressive weight eases.

I'm just another pink spot under a shoe.

--Susan Bruder