WHEN POETS DIE

A drumroll can be heard
in the far distance…
an honor guard of past poets
escorts the new arrival —
at the head of the long column
is Langston Hughes.

-Heavenly greetings to you, Wanda,
your eloquent voice preceded you,
we knew of your talent and drive.

‘Thank you so much, Langston,
I feel so honored, and to be among the likes
of Neruda and Bukowski,
this is the pinnacle for me.’

The drumroll resumes —
Wanda is surrounded by well-wishers…
Barry Simons! Franceye! Scott Wannberg!
Bob Flanagan! Philomene Long! John Thomas!
Nicky Selditz! Joe Hansen!

‘Thank you, everybody, for welcoming me,
you’re all very special souls.’