A Bad Sign

The guide the emperor chose proclaimed he had never found himself lost.

©2011, Peg Duthie

Trailing Behind Your Shadow

Deep in the forest of rotting needles, I yearn for the prickly comfort of dry hay.

©2011, Peg Duthie

Bath

I’m trying to divine your presence in my future: not by reading tea leaves, but by studying the way the foam clings to my thighs.

© 2011, Peg Duthie

Blisters

It was the right boat: it had already survived heat, and floes, and bears, and teeth.

©2011, Peg Duthie

Bristle

Crumpled hairs from your brush cling to the tiger you painted: vibrant with your anger, she is ready to overtake and rend apart her prey.

©2011, Peg Duthie