One, Two, Three Poem by Amo Mokobane

1.

Lying in cotton sheets

Airy, light

Heart soaring.

Exposed hip bone and smell of shampoo.

This is my haven.

Exposed brick wall and bright smile, and sore cheeks and heavy chest.


I may stay here forev- maybe till lunch.


2.

I heard loud noises in my dreams last night.
Sounded like people arguing over-

Nevermind.

I can be so senseless sometimes.

I didn't like the way you spoke to me earlier today.
Remember when we went out to get soap for the dishes?

I mean, maybe I misunderstood.

Nevermind.


Don't come any closer.
Your hands always feel so cold.


3.

You smelled like a memory.
Your lips so round and so soft.
Perfectly proportioned.

You had the most lovely and awkward fingers.
Odd shapes, bendy, hardworking.
Maybe just for a little while.

Ruthless in your judgement.
But, so insecure.

Round face, long legs

I loved you.

Like deodorant that lasts four hours.
But I'd spray you again.

Honey, you were cheap perfume.