Dysfunctional Momentum
by Rietta Parker
Glass shatters over the larynx
releasing unheard melodies
coalescing into harmony
to mingle with the petrichor rising
from the steam-rolled pavement—
—as my foot buries the brake pedal.
My tires are still unsatisfied,
unyielding, screaming—for what?
Eighth notes split in two under my feet,
still
a ribbon of horsehair stays drawn across
steel.
Will my casket be adorned with interweaving blooms
whispering sweet “what ifs” into the dark, cherry finish?
Or
Will I go up in flames?
Ashes scattered along the shore I once walked,
singing softly.
Rietta Parker
Rietta Parker has a B.S. in secondary English education and an M.A. in English-creative writing from Auburn University. When she isn’t teaching or writing, she’s an aspiring wedding, special services and event singer.