Layered
by Esther de Vries
[ poetry - february 10 ]
Flying from home
my layers unfurl
a core revealed
flesh set free
remembers a younger self
whose path not set in stone
meandered from university
to books and beds
filled with expectations.
This revealing a joy
far removed
from daily life
where I am not this open fruit
but more a bamboo bending.
Walking through the city
alone, free,
though with every step
small scars, remnants,
rasp against my clothes.
Flying back
the veil of mother
curves around me
the skin of partner
folds into place
my layered shape again
fits comfortably
once my children hug me.
That evening I blend
a kiss planted on my lips
for a while I am whole
at home.
