listen to the cheers,
a band of skinny boys
who’ve never been in a fight,
giddy when the gloves come off,

flaccid handshakes clutching warm beers,
whispering some bullshit through their teeth.

is this how you’ll look at me,
the last time I ever see you?
your maternal love burnt-out,
glassy-eyed and dumb,
my great love—

with whom there will be nothing more.

-

the roads are icy,
and i’ll wish you home.