– after Babyface Ray
now I’m valuable I’m breedable
I’m a legible hex on the necks of men
wear me flare me carry me cover me
I’m nothing but trouble I’m paper
I’m wall I’m stained glass I’m ceiling
I’m the top shot-caller no dogshit
I’m God to the impoverished
I’m sauced I’m gone I’m serious
I’m prayer breads to the false prophet
who knows they’re headed for Hell
where nothing from this realm remains
I’m a rainbow that melts into a puddle of fire
I want to take you higher I’m hired
I’m promoted I’m the two-story home
my old self could’ve never afforded
I gave up poetry now I charge people
eat bank account zeros like popcorn
I’m a pop song I’m a bleeding neon juke
box I’m too hot no shelter nor shade
I’m heartburn after pound cake
it’s all cake it’s all worth as much
as you’re scared to say I’m a myth
planetary destruction comes straight outta my lip
Julián Martinez (he/him) is the son of Mexican and Cuban immigrants. His poems have appeared or are forthcoming in HAD, Hooligan Mag, Maudlin House and elsewhere. His work has received The Society of Professional Journalists’ Mark of Excellence and has been nominated for the Pushcart Prize. Find him online @martinezfjulian.