When I Read

By Chris Wallach

Why it is that when I read a book

I feel like I have to become a

character in that book.

Like right now

I want to talk with a southern accent

and feign a capricious air

about all that is passing me by.

This beautiful spring day,

little leaves emerging on the

bud ends,

flower ovaries growing

into the beginnings of the fruit

they will become,

sweet to taste when they

become fully ripe.

Like this should be a metaphor

for my ripening.

Am I developing

into something that will be

sweet on the tongue,

words in someone’s mouth

about my possibilities

or my loveliness.

Perhaps,

when I am the main character

in the book I am writing.

That will be glorious