Christmas Poem
originally published in Gems Zine
Christmas Poem
we drive up the mountain
to a white Christmas
summer rain fogs the windshield
& I’m reminded of why I hate
Dad’s reckless driving.
winding road slippery
with motion sickness
I listen to Phoebe Bridgers’
entire discography
again. at the summit
mist tinsels slick gumtrees
smoke rises from solitary cottages
I try to catch my reflection
in their windows
at the summit
fog obscures the river
I listen to Joni Mitchell
instead of the waterfall
& I’m reminded of the poolside
susurration that lulls me
to sleep even now. I listen
to The Smiths & wonder
how long til Dad gives up
dyeing his hair. wonder
what hides among
mountain folds. among
shadows blooming
between swaying eucalypts
a little red bird
the only festivity
decorating slouching trees.
I’m wearing
a black T-shirt
and a smile
for camouflage.
About the Creator
Svetlana Sterlin
Svetlana Sterlin is based in Brisbane, Australia, where she writes prose, poetry, and screenplays. The founding editor of swim meet lit mag, she also edits with Voiceworks.
More from Svetlana: https://linktr.ee/svetlanasterlin
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Comments (1)
This was very poignant. Loved your poem!