Cold

      

 

  I have stood weathered

  and I have known cold.

     known the white

 

     pain cheeks

   and red wet nose.

  I know the binding

 cold that slows limbs,

  silver Michigan wind

         cold.

 

    I have stamped

    little warmths

     into my feet;

   I have shattered

     extremities.

 

   I know the aloneness

   of cold; withdrawn

    crystal memories

   numb and uninviting,

   and icy cataracts

   that peel and fall

  like frozen Pringles.

 Yes, I have known cold.

  I tried to love you,

       remember?