honoring Philip Levine

The noble poor and their robust backs,
that even when prettily slim, still young,
are racked with wiry constellations
of repetition and working asymmetry.

Street smarts create insecurity in hallowed halls,
and do little to assuage a lack of insurance
or the measured mechanics of bureaucracy.
Our attempts smack baldly of guile, even repulse.

Children, our the highest cultured joy,
a chance at future, better tomorrows,
a less grinding continuity, present stars.
Their eyes so boldly wide and undenied.

Possessions take precedence;
family, down-time, meals are ours.
Supporting, reinforcing tiny positives, smiles
as crow's feet spread with iridescent feathers.

The persistent magnanimity of religion,
superstition, old-wives tales ringing true.
Earth feet, litttle levitations, the persistence of work,
and just another day rising.