Timely Morsel: Pretty Things

Written May 7-8, 2026

I am angry,
looking at the mansions.

They are so pretty,
and I like pretty things.

But who can afford these
prices? Bones under
the ground. Tents under
the bridge. Everything
stolen. 

Mr. Austerity, smiling
in his excellent hat. 

Checking the guest list
and always chewing up
the last page. Mouth
and fingers stained with
ink. 

Come and look at
some pretty things.

In another time,
you might yet
be pretty and rich.
Tomorrow or next year. 

And look at the smile
on him. All teeth.

Sir, I am not your
servant. 

I have yet the trees,
the stream, my body
tucked in my own sheets.