Objects in Motion Appear Closer

Mark Waldron. The Brand New Dark.

There are two poems that could be companion pieces because of their use of extended conceit. One animates sheets; the other, turns a bathtub into a sled.

The Sheets and Pillowcases

in this place, have a design printed on them
and he imagines the patterns might get up his nose while he sleeps

[…]

The oneiric qualities are also evident in “The Run”.

They’re in the bath together.
Like tobogganists heading down and down a hill,
snow covering the land like a sleep.

[…]

Of course the poem includes the waking up: “One day she may turn and find him gone. / Fallen off somewhere, / tumbling back towards the world.” The fun trick is that the reader can get back on and ride the poem one more time.

And so for day 1650
20.06.2011

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