Just Below the Bow of this Ship: Hannah Newman

March 30, 2020 Kate Belew with Hannah Newman (Chicago)

The fear inside enticed by sirens

The kind just below the bow of this ship

We'll take you somewhere else, they say

And for a moment I believe them. 

My breath synchronized with the sounds of the waves

There is so much that can be learned in tides.

Slow down, the sirens now sing

And look at that moon. 

Synchronized yet again. 

Body like a minnow.

Tears like a willow. 

Sail on this boat, a hand unfurled.