An Ode to Muses to Polyhymnia

Bologna

It started with a kiss from a stranger,

No introduction needed, just liquid courage and a broken heart.

He didn't know my name or the rhyme to my reason,

Just a shimmering, sparkly, outfit and my soft skin.

All I felt was intoxication and music moving my body.

I didn't know my own name or the rhyme to my reason.

I lost myself shuffling through the crowds as I was being pulled away from my not-so-friendly lover.

I ended up in a land with smoke and mirrors and the concerned look of women.

I then landed in the safety of guardians in uniform who also didn't know what to call me.

All of a sudden, I found my actual friend.

With my arms draped across him, I stumbled through cobblestone roads and slurred apologies.

I couldn't walk, despite my farewell mission.

I finally stumbled into the apartment below mine,

Straddling a porcelain basin, hoping for sweet release.

I feel the gentle fingers of refuge across my neck,

Like a necklace of safety.

As my shoes get removed, my jewelry is put away, and my clothes stay on,

I am coddled into white sheets and fluffy pillows.

I drift away into a poisonous slumber and am awoken my strong arms protecting me from myself.

I was confused, lost, most of all, thirsty.

All I could process was the softness of the makeup-stained sheets and blankets

And the itchiness of my gold, sequin, dress.

As I became aware of my bare back and bare legs,

I felt hands stroking my arms and the small of my back, easing the tension in my spine.

After all my experiences,

For once I was safe in a man's embrace.