it was patchwork pattern

stuffed between

accordion construction

time was tension that swung from

side to side

framing musts

psychotically

with gaping holes that breathed

wheezing memories and entrancing lust

before now

now

felt composed of pressed string theory(s)

Has laid itself like a

blanket cloud

down, close, to earth

where now my body

is as naked

where now my neck

is strung with gold

where now

the death of child

who I was who I am what I saw what I see

everything

nothing happened between

Autumn Handley lives in New London.

Poetry in a Pandemic offers local readers a chance to share their poetry written during or related to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. To contribute, email times@theday.com.