in anticipation
of the grand soiree
i liberated my easel
colors and palate
from the darkened
corners of my mind
and living space
stretched fabric on canvas
until human in form
a truer self portrait
is requisite
for this long
ocean faring journey
to the newest world
i must do so
to save myself from becoming
a dead metaphor
american pastoral
exotic tongues
lap at saint augustine’s wounds
thank god i ordered plenty of champagne
and hors d’ oeuvres
for everyone in the gallery