TIGHTROPE
I sparkle in sequins
and fit gold fabric
precise at each edge
my toes learn grooves
only in my mind
arched back posing
on the aching wire
I hesitate without
the code the code
they promised to whisper
they only cheered me
their faces said Fly
I thought Catch Me Please
Or I Will Die
and looked down at
one man clapping
raised arms higher than mine
my breath listening
no one moved
no one heard him
his eyes pulled me
from my wooden perch
this does not require wings
he said in my voice
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6.l6.05
Judy Prince
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