Innocence Turned Dry, Violent

Nothing matters but how
the words fasten themselves
not to paper but

the sweet child's
heart

spills into
young, empty,
beautifully-crafted

skulls or hand-carved
wooden boats

set sail on
first voyages.

Years later, land
found, settled in
high desert,

sun-parched dry
and wisened,

bowls filled
with thistle and sand

where disturbing, dangerous
creatures slither and travel

sideways-

Love's poisoned tail
held stiff and aimed

defends itself
always

from its own
happiness.