MISSISSIPPI
WINTER I

If I had erased my life there

where the touchdown more than race

holds attention now

how martyred he would have been

his dedication to his work

how unquestionable!

But I am stoned and do not worry

—sitting in this motel room—

for when his footsteps at last disturb

the remnants of my self-pity

there will be nothing here

to point to his love of me

not even my appreciation.