Poetry by Maggie Brodbeck. Finalist in the 2018 Manuscripts Poetry Contest

Brodbeck, Maggie

English

Digital Commons @ Butler University

156journal of naturemaggie brodbeckTheir wings flutter as they are lifted from their nest—a confused cacophony that must be ignored.Cradled in my arms, they hum with happiness,not knowing that the squeakingcorner of the cart I push counts the seconds to their death.When I reach the back room, I sighat the remains of their sisters scattered aboutand the three hours left in my shift.I shut my eyes at what I am about to commit, unable to even spare a look at the namesalong the spines that I snap.And I grossly admire their insides—the beautiful black and white entrailscarved out by my hand’s blade.fpoetry contest f nalist i157Each time, I grab the next one off the cartto prepare its final rites, I raise it to my face and inhale the sweet vanilla musk of its pages.A final goodbye, a flurry of lashes, a kiss of sortsto thank it.i

Journal of Nature

https://digitalcommons.butler.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=4695&amp;context=manuscripts

Journal of Nature

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Digital Commons @ Butler University