Workshop #1

Let me pitch an idea:

I need spaces where I can gather with other writers and glean some sound criticism of what I offer here. Propinquity of space is unnecessary; perhaps, internet anonymity will even facilitate more honesty. What do you all think?*

I wrote this on the train today. It has a way to go, but I'm pleased with the start.

Magnetic North

All my books have missing pages
now fastened to the plaster,
or grafted onto my skin:
mile markers and compass need both--
the snapped branch
that can put you on my trail
 if you care to follow
through the brush
and the thicket

Leap frog super-highways
that stretch serpentine--
mountains high,
valley's low;

pick your way through the decades,
yeah, I'm living whole lifetimes over here
three or four at a go!

You tell me--sometimes--
that you'd like to take a look,
sometime.

But I don't care if it's only curiosity
I don't need to see your calculus:

You are here:
unbutton my shirt and travel overland,
the length of my spine
Seine to Seville

You are right here
and I bet you stay all night.

*[note: I am fully aware there are very few of "you" at out present juncture. That's okay; I'm coming for you.]