SIT-CALM, by Rae Armantrout
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In the excitement phase
we think we want something
we’re made up to seem
exaggeratedly unfit for,
say, touch.
This is the funny part,
but also the dangerous
moment. Right away
we’re talked out of it--
no harm done--
by a band of wise-acre friends.
“I don’t know
what I’m thinking,” we say,
to a spike of merriment.
Here is the warm,
human part
which dissipates tension
From “Made to Seem” by Rae Armantrout. (Sun & Moon: $9.95; 59 pp.) 1995 Reprinted by permission.
