Eileen Tabios *Reproductions of the Empty Flagpole*
Marsh Hawk Press

from *Come Knocking*

"You quirked an eyebrow when I said I loved the flag. What else
can be summoned when you have never seen me drop a smile?
Then you admired the cherries hanging from the ears of a lady
behind me, But as I turned my back I felt you raise your hand
before it sadly lapsed....

What is the surface of reality? Do not our fathers matter? Life so
transcends one's intention. With what are we grappling when we
are not sleeping? Why need we grapple when we are dreaming?
How difficult it must be for you. And still, I must come knocking."