His world is state lines and capitals-
exploring the topographical-
trading words for
symbols, and papers
furled, then unfurled
like flowers.
“How are you?”
No reply.
Not a nod nor a shrug-
indifference to existence.
But try,
“Where’s Dublin?”
Then, his finger point
is sudden and
remarkably accurate.
Cartography is still
a necessary skill,
right?
Even with our satellites?
He’s bright, but
this world, our world,
animated and chaotic,
is too heedless for
a kid like him—
observant, silent,
and tracing
through the din.
pm poetry 