Tags
Dig In
learn to become lignin
living, but stiff
the interdependent men
will talk
over you
at you
about you
object, topic
nascent agent
put your roots down
and pretend;
the storms are normal
your tissues will become inflamed by
the fine salt spray
of casual abrasions
you will be scarred by lightning indignities
the fight’s a grind
each quiet ring
each arthritic old limb
a lonely, lovely victory
Christina Shah was born in Ottawa, lives in Vancouver, and works in heavy industry. Her poetry has appeared or is forthcoming in various journals– including Arc, Vallum, The Fiddlehead, Grain, EVENT, and PRISM international. She recently completed her first full-length poetry manuscript. On hot days, you’ll find her at a good swimming hole.
This poem was originally published in Vallum issue 16:2 Fear.
Vallum magazine is also available in digital format. Featuring additional content such as: AUDIO and VIDEO recordings of selected poets, further poems, interviews, essays, and MORE! Visit our website for details.
Vallum: Contemporary Poetry 