Cigarettes

i’ve  been  trying to think 

small  lately,  they  say  it 

might  help   break  things 

down  some  --  but i can’t 

get anything small enough.

i of rational mind who can 

perspectivize cosmic origins 

and still a pack of cigarettes

is too much for me.

legacy & meaning & History 

itself on the line and i can’t 

hear about blood on a pack

of cigarettes without getting 

sick, really sick

and maybe the human will to 

live is the smallest thing i can 

think of or maybe it’s me but 

bruised elbows prove i can be 

the strong one if i don't stop 

like he did and i’m desperate 

for that, 

in a way 

       you don't understand.

the fighting hurts--it does--but 

not like those damn cigarettes.

i’m burning out quick.