My little brother
wrapped himself up
like a package
to shut out the snow,
but I showed him
how to loosen his arms
and shake the shivers
out of himself,
be a rag doll
never cold
or hungry but he
was such a beggar,
and I said
when mother went
to get the burgers:
we'll yell
if anybody
tries to steal us.
. . .
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
. . .
I always knew
what was what.
Rocks are stronger
than trees, a lake
stronger than rock,
I told him, always
giving advice,
cities stronger than lakes.
A penny, please,
for my thoughts.
. . .
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
. . .
When I walk the city
I don't hunch
against its strength.
I open up
and let the winter
whine through me
and find nobody.