UNTITLED

Grayness skitters across the sky
While I'm waiting here to die,
Not what you think-don't put me
In Suite 631, I don't need a respite.
America eyed me on the platform,
I waited for him to comment
On the skulls and bones that were
Chicago.
And he asked, "Kumusta ka?"
Mabuti.
"Ano ginagawa mo?"
Papunta sa eskuela how do you know Tagalog?
"Everybody knows Tagalog."
No. Not everybody.
Banged on the door this morning
For 15¢ I didn't have.
She took a quarter,
Not a dream.
"WAR TOYS!"
the speakers screamed.
Pompeii's sausage looks like dog food. Dogeater.
Munchies with their beer.
That's what Mommy said. And Mama too.
I don't know what to think of you.
Or you.
Or . . . you.
Batman Pez dispenser, that's all,
Waiting at home for Death to call
And claim him.

– BARB NATIVIDAD