I. She Asks Him “For the Third Time” to Leave the Toilet Seat Down
outside the elm trees

redden with autumn.

their tight green berries

bitter in the waning sun.
II. Her Uncle Slipped His Hand into Her Overalls — Whispered, shhh it’s a game
outside the elm trees

redden with autumn.

their tight green berries

bitter in the waning sun.
III. With His Fingertips, the Old Man Brushed Her Hair Behind Her Ear — Soon, my love.

      Soon
outside the elm trees

redden with autumn.

their tight green berries

bitter in the waning sun.