Ailanthus Altissima

We know our place 

as conjurors of levity 

it's misfits together

striving for insanity and kissing 

every comet in the velvet veil

enduring effigies of rose onyx 

in a Victorian menagerie 

My heart had only been broken 

so I could know you

I have no fear of my mind or my talent

I forge a path through the backyard

invaded and undone by Ailanthus altissima

allowing a lashing from the overgrowth on my skin 

knowing this isn't all that we are
knowing that my parents raised me for love
knowing this city is a twirling jewel 

in her wisdom she blesses us and 

we raise her up

this city of cosmic strength

this hub of joy

a timeless beauty

28 April 2023