Trifecta Shroud
by Sterling Warner
When each new normal seems prematurely suspect, & novel precedes countless consequences & convictions, crude future plans evolve on a makeshift potter’s wheel, each well-conceived vase or urn collapsing from within, wet walls imploding, leaving the only inch high ashtrays, a blob of red clay, usually nothing. This then I wander with reckless precision, west coast to the east, seek out live brassy voices among empty Broadway Theatre seats, stroll with abandon along Time’s Square, patronize every sullen sidewalk pretzel vendor; listen & escalate rich rumors of burlesque’s second coming— Gypsy Rose Lee’s resurrection—a random striptease promising sheer Easter wings. Back to the west coast’s shoreline somber, I’ll skip rocks across tops of cresting waves, marvel at resolute sounds—rolling tides emerging from seashells cupped to my ears— smile as I recollect pleasures past: SRO arena concerts, large poetry readings at dusk, bustling streets lined with coffee shops & boutiques; I’ll wipe my face with salt water solemnity, hands sanctified with deep ocean magic—not soap & water—cherishing memories, respecting change.
The Author
Sterling Warner An author, educator, and pushcart nominee, Sterling Warner’s works have appeared in many literary magazines, journals, and anthologies such as The Fib Review, Bewildering Stories, and The Atherton Review. His poetry collections include Rags & Feathers, ShadowCat, Edges, Memento Mori: A Chapbook Redux, and Without Wheels.