here where there
is no
rip cord
nor zip line
i howl full bore
lost at the timberline
here where the air
is thin unseen
creatures scurry
i can
hear where they’re
hidden
lit towns
below me beckon
there where her
heart lies
there where there’s
no rest for the weary no
rest for the weary
no rest i remain
here where there’s
dark where i am the heir
apparent to invisible matter
Chagall 2016
Singularity
Inside I’m screaming aloud
Without her outside
© Chagall 2015
The smell of juniper and quinine
cocktails decompose
over time I believe
in blackthorn sloe
iced rims and peels
at precise times
perfect blend
with just enough tilt
to justify everyday
long and low I go
around high-heeled
a pucker and a tart
on the edge
frayed by longing
tickled by tassels
a halted sneeze
anticipates blessing
that never comes
see me
dance down the pole
in your void
savagely horned
good heat
but little smoke
© Chagall 2014
A single footprint
all that wind would oblige her
gulls in cursive vees
© Chagall 2013
Even though you’re here with me now
I want you to know
I’m elsewhere
walking on pavement
slick with rain
watching bars and hearts empty.
Bring me back
just hold me dear,
tell me it’s all right,
kiss me softly
in dark rooms at the edge of town,
hear far-away whistles blow.
I’ve never made love
in a first-floor flat,
have you?
So close to the street
but so far from heaven.
© Carlos Chagall, 2013
Alphabet City 