He says he likes the discussion and Q&A
more than the poems. He says he wishes
they would explain things before they read.
He says, I would never read poetry
that’s like this. He says he understands
why they want to write down their feelings,
but doesn’t see why they have to publish them.
He says he doesn’t like to think about death.
He says when a poet reads, he hears the words,
even closes his eyes, but doesn’t process them.
He says, this will be you one day—reading,
signing your book. I’ll be there.
He’ll be there leaning forward or leaning back.
He’ll be there cringing or sweating or smiling,
hands open or arms crossed. He’ll be there,
both eyes closed.
Bethany Jarmul is an Appalachian writer and poet. She’s the author of two chapbooks, and her debut poetry collection Lightning Is a Mother is available now with ELJ Editions. Her work has been published in many magazines including Rattle, Brevity, HAD, and Salamander. Her writing was selected for Best Spiritual Literature 2023 and Best Small Fictions 2024, and has been nominated for the Pushcart Prize, The Best of the Net, Best Microfiction, and Wigleaf Top 50. Connect with her at bethanyjarmul.com or on social media: @BethanyJarmul