Huh, What, Say Again
One disconnect and then another
The Prompt: Write a poem that captures the feeling of static, whether it's heard, seen, or felt.
Static is easy to recognize but harder to explain. It can be noise, texture, tension, interruption, or the feeling of a connection that won't quite come through.
Use the prompt as a starting point rather than a definition. Your poem might explore radio interference, charged air, restless energy, crossed signals, or something unresolved beneath the surface.
Let sound, rhythm, imagery, and form carry the sensation. Whatever static means in your poem, make it something the reader can hear, see, or feel.
"Mom, I've been trying to get ahold of you all day, and yesterday."
What is that weird sound, I'm sorry, are you okay?
Hello, hello, Joanna? Must be just our lucky day
"Mom, are you there? That noise is awful. Say..."
Joanna, what is going on with your phone today?
~
"Nothing is wrong with my phone. We were cut off again."
Hello, hello, Joanna. Dead silence now, just static.
Maybe she messaged me and just wants to play tic.
I suppose it is the AT&T towers that are down.
~
She said it wasn't her. But there was so much noise
on the line. It was impossible to hear her voice.
Okay, we are back online. What can I help you with? Hear me?
"Yes, I hear. Brandon is borrowing $1,000. from me, can you get to town
before 5:00. Pick up the cash at the bank and take it down
to him or maybe Brooke, or he can pick it up. See?"
~
We are on our way into town, my phone is way better. Is he
okay? What's the urgency in buying a truck? Can it be...
"As far as I know they are okay. Him and his little family"
Are you going to Logan's bull riding tonight? It will be
how many now? It's close to Iowa? So far from home and yes
I sure wish he would find a different hobby. Something less
dangerous.
~
Sure is good to be back online., Sorry I missed your notice.
I have been so busy. and I know you have too. How is the job
going? Is it what you expected? How is it working with Bob?
"Everything is going well, I told them I can only work on site
3 days a week. I know you are busy. Thank you. Work out of town bites."
About the Creator
Denise E Lindquist
Retired, working part-time as a Native American culture consultant. I have an MSE, and an ABD. I write on Vocal, and Facebook. Poetry, non-fiction mostly, and working on fiction. Wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother.
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