Theory of Surplus Value

the mania of a new moon
the acuity of a desire that longs to fulfill itself and become extinct
the dogs that won't stop barking at night
poetry that tastes like medicine
the silver bell that lives on the altar

the straw mat my blue shoes the overdraft fee
and the reading group

over and above the clamor of this population
i dimly perceive something that bids me continue

i write another proposal open another book
start another conversation answer another phone call
continue to put my left foot in front of my right foot and then
the right in front of the left