drums

the sleek cover of skin tells us we are bound
& singular     that our pieces are secure
to attack the skin is to attack

the oneness of the creature
to put distance between the self
& center     the unsteady beast

will tear itself in moments of grief
& yet return clean & whole
to a nest that chatters or spills

sound also has smooth curves
the s of a song that agrees
to cushion your tender knots

to round you    protect
your softest pieces      wrapped
safe & warmly pulsing