Crucifixion by I Echo

Crucifixion  

This body holds no secrets because I no longer 

Have any for it to keep. I am the dead dog

By the road—the hallelujah of red on display 

Like love that cannot be hidden. Two lovers were 

Shot by a motorway. Everyone saw it 

& left, but, I swear, I long for something like this.

After the shot, everyone saw a miracle

In their houses. Empty houses unnerved 

By those little rattles of displayed affection 

& because we are all lonely 

& our fear forced us into a rich oblivion,

We all long to be free—some more than others.

The miracle of moments tied to posts

Like a gifted crucifixion, how I long for such openness.

The fear flogged out of me. The affection bled

Out as evidence for an unholy world. Stupid world,

Tell me if this will save you. Let it save you.

I Echo (b. Chris Baah) is a Ghanaian-Nigerian writer. He is the Founding Curator of NENTA Literary Journal, where he also serves as a Poetry Curator. He has work in Mudroom, Ußwali, & elsewhere. He is also studying for an MFA at George Mason University.