ARS POETICA #69
“I’m writing a book. I’ve got the page numbers done.” Steven Wright
I want a poem to save me
from all evil and myself, then take me home and cook
some corned beef, potatoes and cabbage with that same red
sauce my wife makes. Of course, it wouldn’t be as good
as my wife’s, but good enough to eat.
I want a poem to cut the chains, set me free
and give me a pep-talk to build my confidence
so I can take on any job, perform
any task, solve any problem.
I want a poem to show me the way,
to light a path or part the sea
so I can walk safely into my dreams.
And most of all, the poem should grab my heart
and squeeze it gently until all my love
fills the room, the house, the city and world.
I want a poem to kneel down and offer up my destiny.
David James has published ten books; his most recent is out from Main Street Rag Press, THE CUP OF LIVING, 2026. After thirty years, he retired from teaching at Oakland Community College.
