Insomnia
Dog barks go over and over
the details in my head.
Car brakes join them,
especially when slammed
and skidding the vehicle sideways,
Let’s not forget sirens –
ambulance or cops,
even the fire truck –
they want in on the action.
As does the storm.
I’ve mind enough for lightning,
thunder., downpour,
even blizzard
if I’m cold enough.
So what do they all leave me with –
echo and puddles,
bludgeoning and icicles hanging
from every second thought.
I try counting sheep.
Then I try discounting them.
There’s no “baa” in my brain
Only explosions and text messages
from terrorists.
My wife rolls over,
accidentally hugs me.
My body –
night’s next plan of attack.
John Grey is an Australian born poet. Recently published in The Lyric, Vallum and the science fiction anthology, “The Kennedy Curse” with work upcoming in Bryant Literary Magazine, Natural Bridge, Southern California Review and the Oyez Review.
