Step into my Parlor

Posted on 2020-04-05 by Bartholomew Barker

Again one prompt clarifies the other.

“For today’s prompt, write a moment poem.”

“It’s Day 5 of National Poetry Month and today’s poem prompt is Twisted.”

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Step into my Parlor

One pungent morning, I was flying—
that’s what I’m called to do
and I do it well—
then my wing sticks,
jerked by clinging threads.

I sputter and twist
but more sticky attraction,
more delicate moments ensnare
until I’m immobilized
by a web of your words.

If only I’d taken a different path,
I wouldn’t be watching the inevitable
prepare to encompass me in trust
and be consumed by love.

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About Bartholomew Barker

Bartholomew Barker is an organizer of Living Poetry, a collection of poets in the Triangle region of North Carolina where he has hosted a monthly feedback workshop for more than decade. His first poetry collection, Wednesday Night Regular, written in and about strip clubs, was published in 2013. His second, Milkshakes and Chilidogs, a chapbook of food inspired poetry was served in 2017. He was nominated for a Pushcart Prize in 2021. Born and raised in Ohio, studied in Chicago, he worked in Connecticut for nearly twenty years before moving to Hillsborough where he lives and writes poetry.
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6 Responses to Step into my Parlor

  1. Lisa Tomey-Zonneveld's avatar Lisa Tomey says:
    2020-04-05 at 20:36

    This drew me in and the twisted reveal was perfection.

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply
  2. Ali Grimshaw's avatar Ali Grimshaw says:
    2020-04-05 at 22:57

    Well done, I especially like your second stanza.

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

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