Memories of Abalone Diving
by Juhi Ranjan
Dr. Juhi Ranjan is a self-taught artist who uses fluid art to create abstract
compositions that are inspired by her own life experiences and desires.
You’ll celebrate with friends and strangers so
happy to protect a wounded bird needing solace and bits
of cake. After they leave, you’ll close the door on the tall,
wannabe bodyguards who stink of cologne. You’ll
puncture the balloons and half-eaten cake. Then you’ll
lounge in bed, watching Late Night--- assessing who
looked most earnest at the party and who’s overdue to lose
a husband, a brother, or maybe a long lost cousin.
You’ll sleep soundly the first night, but it won’t last
for long. There are things you have forgotten. Dimensions
you didn’t cover. Reminders that will come only when
you’re alone. My lifeless feet floating up the stairway. My
face in your kitchen window. My teeth scattered on tile.
My hair in your planter, your cushions, the places your
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