Bodily Hymns

By Paris Jessie

woods are clung to like native ways. chasing fog 
that lingers as stillness. the splitting 

of the sea as a path cries for you. withered grass 
tells where you have been. the moon,

where you are and the stars, where you go.
In the cloudy water reflection is purely—

who you are. the crackling of twigs 
and leaves with their solitude imprint. covered 

by a coat of wondrous howls. the echoes 
of candle trees guide shepherded by 

packs of fireflies. there is no beast 
just tracks of fearlessness. the stout 

night hauls a breath, that 
which infiltrates the spirit.

Paris Jessie (they/she) is a black, queer writer and budding creative. She is a moon enthusiast rooted in peculiarities. Find more at iamparisjessie.com