by Jacob Butlett
–inspired by “Follow the Rain” by Erik Johansson
I think about scolding you for dropping
your oar into the river, but I don’t want
you stranded in my countryside. I descend
from my roiling mattress of dark blue skies
to offer help. You tie these ropes around me
& ask me to yank you down the river,
beyond these dark green hills & specks
of yellow daisies among bushes doused
in rain. My rain. I shower you in your little
white boat. I won’t apologize for my lightning.
I won’t apologize for my downpour. Which
is to say, if you want to know, I won’t
apologize for being a giver of life to these
weeds tucked behind briars & saplings.
I don’t want others to see me as just
a wet stain on heaven’s gate. I’m full
of thunderous tears, determined as ever,
so, yes, pull out your umbrella. Watch me
shepherd you through the night…
Jacob Butlett is a Pushcart Prize-nominated author. In 2023 he received an Honorable Mention for the Academy of American Poets Prize (Graduate Prize). Kelsay Books recently accepted his debut book of poems, Stars Burning Night’s Quiet Rhapsody.
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