Gesso

Empty containers rattle at my feet like so many bones

My hands open another jar of black gesso

Upon the lid I write the name of this newest person in my life

Set it on the table and place the brush alongside

Fingers trace the canvas where the colors of me yet exist

Ebon flakes fall away where my vibrant hues had broken through

I take up the brush, dip it into the void

Hold my breath and apply broad, sweeping strokes

Convince myself again that black is all the colors in one

I'm not obfuscating myself, I am pulling your color into me

It all still lies beneath

I still lie beneath

I will lie beneath

Until you tire of the mirror

Or I break