Soltice

Painting by Howard Terpning

Solstice:
by Kaw-ii-su--Skygate


Solstice
the thunder remains in my belly

even when no one is watching

At first light of day
I have seen the sky-gate

drumming
I have sent a song through it

and feet which will stomp the earth
I have gathered myself and named myself

salt, corn
I have counted myself

tobacco
drum

sweetgrass a morning feast
feet

passed through invisible hands
fingers

sky-gate opens
I will press my belly to the earth

just a few feet away
and sing from there

two-lane highway

air-conditioned indifference
Tobacco Indian

magnificent oblivion
Natural Man Runs Down-wind