

by Nomax Jodevaski

If there was a seesaw

or a barrel, the effect

would not be so pronounced.

I can’t bluster honest grace

without a lie to hold for balance.

I sound ridiculous.

It’s only when I can count on

unsure footing that I’m certain

the Earth won’t betray me

like a 7-11 door (next to one

that’s open) that’s locked.

I hate looking stupid.

With just me saying so

this will sound stupid

but if we all were on dirt feet

together we could be able

to together use each other for

balance, together. The only

problem is we aren’t all dumb

as penguins checking on whales.

Nomax Jodevaski is an official socialist organizer in California. He works in plastics. His first collection of poetry is due to be published soon.