The Stories We Tell

I was looking for a friend. That feels important to say first, because in retrospect I think I spent a … Continue reading The Stories We Tell

The Shattering

The Shattering Sometimes it isn’t a grand betrayal that wakes you.Sometimes it’s a broken mason jar,glass everywhere,a woman’s red-faced embarrassmentas … Continue reading The Shattering

First Dollar

Outside CC Slaughter’s brick and black awning frames a door keeping its secrets behind a security guard whose face is … Continue reading First Dollar

Grounding

Something in me is shiftingin the quiet places—ankles sunk in river mud,water pulling the heatof the past out of me. … Continue reading Grounding

The Grey Warden

In order to save the worldI must first become unfit for it.I drink black bloodfrom a silver rimmed chalicewhile everyone … Continue reading The Grey Warden

I’m Over “Almost”

I have wateredtoo many dead rootsand called it devotion. I have mistakencrumbs for effort.A hand on my leg.A soft wordwhen … Continue reading I’m Over “Almost”

Too much noise

I make too much noisetrying to prove I’m not alone.I light little fires in the rainso someone might see me. … Continue reading Too much noise

You Can’t Live in an Echo

There’s a version of methat still lives here,barefoot and unfinished,thinking the past is somethingyou can step back intoif you take … Continue reading You Can’t Live in an Echo

Before the Night Closes

I keep writing new versions of myself that sound open and easy. Ones that don’t ask for too much too … Continue reading Before the Night Closes

Reflections on the Willamette

I walk towards the river, the night behind me is too close, too loud, too heavy. The silence the … Continue reading Reflections on the Willamette