Hurricane Poem by Nicole DeLima

I walked the streets.
Wet pavement under my feet.
Dark clouds rolled in.
Rush rush rush - the wind.
And suddenly Rita.
Suddenly Rita.

The sky cracked in half.
My heart split apart.
All at once it was black
When there used to be a spark.
And suddenly Rita.

Bring me a brighter day
Or death, come what may.
I know you cannot stay
So won't you take me away
Suddenly Rita.

A thought that's forbidden
Is one to keep hidden
From those who might see
What's happening to me
Suddenly Rita.

Suddenly Rita.

(September 2005)