I write because I have to? I’ve considered that option. I’d like to lay claim to it. I’d like to tell people when they ask, “I’m a writer.” Too many “I’d like’s.”

lay claim to this
take it for your own
the same letter jumps out
looking down
considering such
pleasant thoughts
some such
plaguing haunts
stretch
reach
internalize external
embrace the new
stop making
statements
felt shards
I felt shards of
shall we say
sorrow
morosity
laid at her feet
I danced that night
under a smoky dark sky
on tilted floor
place this
erase this from memory
for only good.