HERMES

Pelvis and thighs mounted

By black spandex, a golden bicycle between

His whirling spindleshanks and knees,

He speeds forward. Direct as a thrust,

This young god is his own herald.

No need for exegesis.

He’ll give it as it is

And take what he desires.

Dream on, observer. The wings of sleep

Are for everyman. If cows

Walk backward, then even you

Can grasp your bounty. Yet the god

Will have his sacrifice.

 ,

First published in High Shelf, Volume XXVII, February 2021