Surgeons and Poets

My infrequent forays into poetry include this piece, published in the current issue of MCW's literary journal, Auscult. The entire issue is accessible here.

The surgeon reads the other surgeon's incisions.

The poet dissects the other poet's alliterations.

Creations in sinew and word.

The surgeon recalls a reckless case.

"I was too quick to cut! My mistake

returns to me at night."

The poet sets down the faded chapbook.

"This word! And that! I hadn't yet learned

to trust."

Light reveals chaos. The hands explore.

Tissues and thoughts, when left to nestle back

Hard one upon the next, will soon turn to iron.