Ace Boggess

DESIRE LIGHTS A CANDLE FOR ITSELF

We were freest with each other
while the cost of living
conned us,

each struggle an aphrodisiac:
your boss, my lack;
virus dread & virus had;

need, need, need
translated into greater purpose,
a brutal puzzle skin resolved.

Others say make-up sex,
but what about times when
what you’re making up with

is the burden of existence?
We survived on fruit & brandy,
singed lips on sweetest coffee.

We never let the neighbors rest.
Did they, too,
come through darkness

with a flourish?
I’d ask if I weren’t blushing &
had less work to do, the hour late.