Before I Begin

Before we begin with the poem, have we poured a glass of water and used the toilet? How many times have you needed to get something done or even wanted to and something held you back? You might even enjoy the thing which needs doing, but for whatever reason are frozen in the act of starting. You find other tasks to do, whittling away another hour, knowing full well that once you begin at the original task you will find enjoyment and gain a sense of accomplishment upon completion. From this place my poem originates. I hope you enjoy it.

let me look at stacks of paper

unfinished

is there coffee brewed in pot;

is there water that is hot?

I am not parched

better pee and prepare

for lunch will, not for my doing, but will

can we begin now?

or, have we now no more

bananas?

if only, if only

but there is this thing of readiness

had we begun already, we'd be

done