You’re reading Good Grief’s Spotlight Series.
The following poem is from David Hernandez’ most recent collection of poetry, originally published by Pit Poetry Press in 2022. Hernandez has published his work in Iowa Review, Ploughshare, Kenyon Review, Poetry, and the Southern Review been the recipient of two Puschart prizes, among other other accolades (which you can read more about on Hernandez’ website here).
Hello I Must Be Going
Really nice meeting you sorry
I have to hurry off there’s this thing
happening this thing I must do
you too yes dying is the thing
everyone is not talking about it
why ruin karaoke night why discolor
the air between you and the bartender
hello what can I get for you
it’s miraculous we’re here and then
the world is yanked from us and then
time dismantles our bodies to dust
okay um can I help the next customer
see it would be awkward
let’s not bring it up mum’s the word
come on now we’ve still got
some living to do pick up that trumpet
I’ve got mine already never mind
we can’t play any instruments
the point is to make a sound
any sound in this endless parade
shimmering toward silence
We’ll see you Sunday. Until then, have another poem or two. Or ten.