A python uncoils

to the banshee songs

of the trees. Lushness

sinks downward

to bare stalks.



The week ends in confiscation.

Fingers and toes pruned

taken away.

The gnarls and stubs

go to the red headed vultures

that abide like dogs

close to our heels.



In the Thai language

'never mind' (mai pen rai)

is a three word song

within a wry smile.



Leper town is in no hurry

it has seen death miscarry

inch by inch.

No one counts

nubs and stumps.



Above the febrile glands

of the jungle

below the uncoiling night

we toss back beers

laughing-

forever broken.



never mind.







~~~~~~~



Footnote: McKean Institute is a treatment and rehabilitation center

in Chiang Mai, North Thailand.







(C) Eric Ashford July 08