(Taormina) (Sicilia 22)

the lizards probably live off insects
who munch on the skin flakes of the 5000 bodies
that showed up to be entertained here.
the poppies likely grow better
because the sweat and tears quenched them.

they cried because it would be insulting to this panorama
to show less emotion.

they dropped their pain and suffering into the
sight of Etna
and prayed for life to continue no matter its many stings

they looked down to a stage and saw played out
the tragedies that make it interesting.
the stones, better shaped for skinny bottoms,
because rest was found here.

how many eyes were thirsty?  how many
blinking pairs lapped up this nourishment
how many bawled when the sun set
and threw gold past the carbon mount
flowing with blood of the earth?
many. many.
it’s why we still come.