Inspiration

for Dawn Kamerling

Sometimes it comes like water from a hose;

   I try to keep up, but my fingers ache.

Sometimes it’s like an empty suit of clothes,

   And all I write is surface and feels fake.

But something always comes—and even what

   Reads false—just like third season Captain Kirk—

Can ring true if I edit it and cut

   Deeper than skin—which is where my real work

Begins, the work that typists never do.

   Because the first draft’s always therapy,

The second is where I must make it true

   For people who lack my pathology.

      And if I’m blessed, that work will make them hear

      What inspiration whispered in my ear.

 

Copyright 2014 Matthew J Wells