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UCQ

Creative Writing

Life's Work

1
 
Did I say I was a creature
of habit?
 
I meant the opposite.
 
I meant behavior
is a pile of clothes
 
I might or might not wear.
 
Before all the sowing and reaping
could go on for centuries,
 
before the calendar,
I must have been convinced
 
that my movements
were both mandated
 
and blessed.
 
 2
 
I've never been an old woman
knitting by a fire
 
but I've played one
in images
 
where it meant being foolish
or wise, a mistress
 
of distraction's
indirection.
 
To rock while entwining
is life's work,
 
but I am reckless,
restless

-    Rae Armentrout