Why Shouldn't They Become What They Wish Themselves Into Poem by Mary Angela Douglas

Why shouldn't they be what they dream themselves into

I think to myself in dreams that are kind of lucid

If they wish to be fish on the last day of the world

With pomegranate lips lisping in a divine language

This is what you should wish for

magic fish

Wishing is not too late

Or perhaps there is someone drowning

Who could use another person's ability to

Breathe underwater

Suddenly to wish if only I were coral

And to become so

Blending into the reefs

No fusillade can reach.

Or shatter.

mary angela douglas 18 october 2023