Ice Wall
After “Snow” by Ava Winter
I’m still not brave enough
to face the snow outside
my apartment.
A friend asks me if I’m going
to JR’s to watch Drag Race tonight.
I tell him I’m too
nervous to get in a car,
to walk across the icy sidewalk,
to unlatch the patio door.
I know what could happen
at that bar tonight.
I’d laugh, cheer,
consider adding a second drink
to my tab, then keep my head down
and try to write during commercials.
I’d ignore the joy around me,
refuse to make eye contact
with those sitting next to me.
I’m still unable to thaw
my eyes, not brave enough
to ask for someone’s name,
even if it’s the only way
to get some heat
back into my flesh.