Work of Art - Open Mic Project

[Cadaverous Pallor]

Worry

“Good morning, sweetie.”
sure hands scoop up his tiny frame
kissing and caressing into wakefulness
shuffle toward the stairs

fuzzy socks slip and skid
she pitches sideways into the railing
the baby tumbles
his head hits the wooden floor audibly

Once down it’s time for breakfast
placed carefully in highchair
she turns away to fill the kettle
a plate for bread and jam

a creak of plastic and aluminum
then a thud. She spins
blood pools under his little cheek
forgot to buckle him in

She sits next to him with food and drink
a rattle shakes in greeting
scrolling through today’s news
sunlight peeking between curtains

eyes on the screen, put down the tea
small hands always reaching
flying liquid and instant screams
steam billows off his chubby arms

Baby’s playthings appeal
soft jingles and sweet music
friends of plastic and polyester
surround, comfort, protect

Mom washes her hands, exits the bathroom
so that’s why he’s been so quiet
face down in a smiling zebra’s belly
not enough air for his tiny chest

Glowing buttons make me laugh
I kick and music plays
teether in my fingers
full of cereal and love

What was that noise? Mommy
laying by the stairs
I need you to get up now
Mommy? Mommy? Please come here



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Perhaps not shocking so much as dark, but still an interesting exercise. I found it both hard and easy to write.