*
by Simon Perchik

1. The dead are already holding hands
2. and what’s left they share
3. as memories –in the meantime

1. who do you suppose makes this tea
2. and the smoked fish, then room
3. for the grandchildren you almost forgot

1. were born later –the dead
2. are no better at it than you
3. –they mix up dates and places

1. though what pins them down
2. is no longer the flowers
3. soothed by each other and vague streams

1. –no, it wasn’t you lifting this cup
2. passing itself off as empty
3. with nothing inside to unwrap

1. –from the start the dead form a circle
2. as if they still expect to sing outloud
3. and you would hear it, open your mouth.