in order to get to
the gate of heavenly peace
you must show ID, appointment number,
and scan your face
one cannot
pray
dance
sing
or play music
one can only gaze
across the vast expanse
that calls for a crowd
a blank canvas refusing to be written.
at sunset soldiers
goose step their way
to lower the state flag
the stilted yet sensuous tension
between soldier and spectator
marked by a wide open space
pockmarked by soldiers police and security
their rigidity calling for
an already rejected embrace.
stomping their feet against the cold
the people talk about what’s for dinner
the unsaid silent as mountains.
hog maw 