Lobster Boy

 

Lobster Boy

 

His skin is that of an angry lobster

About to be steamed

(or just past it and on the plate).

His eyes are looking at me

(mean).

 

His hair is coarse like Brillo pads

I use to clean the sink

(I’m not sure I want to touch it).

Red like a fire burning

(weak).

 

Spots dance upon his cheeks

And I can’t take him seriously

(Aren’t freckles for kids?)

We played in his room as kids

(It smelt bad).

 

I want to pluck him from this earth

And dip him into stew

(mixed with scallops)

He licks his lips double time

(chapped).

 

His face is long like he’s struggling

For air or to breathe

(Did they use forceps)?

I want to push it back in place

(fruitless).

 

But

 

His shoulders are broad like a ship

Proud and ready to sail

(Carry me away).

He always takes his vitamins

(not me).

 

His arms are built like soldiers’ pride

And he carries them with grace

(Lifting cars for fun).

With him I am safe from harm

(greed).

 

Stars spin in his eyes

Like jokes unknown to me

(He can make anyone laugh).

I tagged along behind him

(and he let me).

 

I want to pick from him his way

Of making people feel at ease

(I’m horrible at that).

Rob him of his lobster charm

(replace my crab).