the reading poet

behind his book

taking microphone,

spoke

each word lengthening

to a degree

of edgy movement

what seemed so few in words

became eternal,

those who watched

brow moistened by sweat

beneath his fringe

saw an iconic image

poster adorned with Che

on bedroom walls,

fingers found a glass

to sip some wine

for confidence,

feet moving almost pacing

just shuffling,

closer to edge of stage

silence in the darkness,

all held on his voice,

a lithe brunette student

leaped forward

lemon t shirt lifted

baring breasts

with

I Love You

lipstick marked

flashbulb pop

a step back

maybe a stutter of words

faltered only for a beat

smiling continued,

status assured