Oh but I would hold you all

coiled warm like viscera

in the dark of my gut

 

but

 

oh but I would tie you up

all of you hobbled by prayer

tight roped bound to me

to keep you safe from death and life

 

but

 

oh but I would hold your

sleep flushed heads and

sweaty hair,

down on my ample thighs

and shield your eyes from the bad things

 

but

 

you would be too heavy

and I couldn't bear it

you would be too bound

and never learn it

you would be too warm

and never breathe.