for bob neuwirth

     by patti smith

obviously not a freeze out

your voice is very loud
do you think there's no one
who will speak to you

she speaks to you honey
speaks low
and says things worthy
of note:

I carry in my arms
bear on my back
and bring home
the sacrifice that will
bring us through
the coming year
   a deers head
   ribbons from the dancers shoes
   white tights tutu dancers things
   and random bits of jungle
   white snake pigeons wings
   Donga bat
   two cats eye marbles

you can say it quietly
and then sweet girl will answer you
listen to everything you got to speak
telling you everything you want to hear