When will smooth skin turn to wrinkled robe?
Will I see the browning of autumn leaves before fall or
Does this winter skip down on lithe legs when I sleep?
Shall I realize my dreams of yanking loose teeth?
(Gums purpled, salivating)
Might age roll up in an unmarked van, and disgorge men in black suits?
Can the fortune-tellers allay with the drop of cards or
Does the snap of scrying bones demand a literal translation?
Would I dine comfortably if I could see those dogs who await their share?
(Eyes yellowed, salivating)
Joseph Byron Bennett