Two Poems

Schmeared Right Up to the Edge

when I wear a white shirt for a few hours
without staining it

I “quit while I’m ahead”
and change

getting really into
ice cream sandwiches

saying “get off my finger dude”
to a strand of floss

it’s been a while since anyone
invited me to bible study

have you ever noticed
how spoiled you sound

when you ask
for an everything bagel

every day’s a cheat day
when you deserve death

I’ve Been Taking Such Deep Breaths

had a dream I was a leaf
found toast crumbs in my ear

if I were a bad guy
I would laugh normal

some parts of me feel
good when they’re moving

other parts only feel good
staying still

I pray kind of a lot
I usually just say “dear lord”

and then imply the rest
with a nod

—

Crow Jonah Norlander lives in Maine. His work has been featured on Spectra and Swamp.