Crossing The Baton

Tasting like music

each word marches on

Out of the vacuum

flavored in song

The future parades

on both sides of the bridge

The band denied entry

so close to the edge

The toll taker muted

arms point to the sky

Pedestrians hover

and wait to get by

Guide wires of silence

restrung play adieu

When the drum major signals

—it’s safe to come through

(Dreamsleep: December, 2023)