VOICES FROM THE FIRE: J.C. HAWKES

I Am A Poet

What does that 

even mean ——

It suggests I ->

might be a god

but I do not think I am a god. 

Am I shaman – 

journeying and healing the tribe 

I don’t think I’ve healed myself – 

(let alone anyone  – else). 

I listen to the Melvins –

They have a beat 

which I 

feel. 

I live in a small flat –

Which is mine — all mine

… no people share my space. 

… I would like to have a dog –

I used to be a cat person. 

Now I would prefer a dog

I wake up in the early am:

I am older 

I do not wake up 

with a constant erection anymore. 

I go straight for my cigarettes 

it’s the first thing I want. 

I do not wake up wanting sex 

all morning – unless 

it is a crescent moon 

then – I am virile 

and ready for 

action!

I Am A Poet —

And I can tell you:

It means nothing – 

And NOTHING is quite ok with me. 

I don’t WANT anything — anymore 

I am Not a GOD

I am not – a shaman. 

I do not care for the future –

For I live right 

now – 

No prediction will frighten me 

no matter how real 

and terrifying. 

I am a poet —

I write my own future

I am writing it 

now.