Poetry
on 166
The Maverick is the free spirit that follows its own
path, hears its own voice and sings its own song.
We invite you to experience this spirit in a truly
unique renovated historic motor court that offers
luxurious amenities at an affordable price in the
“Hub of the Big Bend.”
Bonnie, Clyde, Lou, Becca, Julia, Dusty,
Linsey, Shannon, Rick, Robert and Doug
are all at your service at
“The Roadhouse for Wanderers.”
1200 E. Holland Avenue
(across from Sul Ross State University)
432.837.0628
www.themaverickinn.com
4 paws rated (pet friendly)
Mention this advertisement at time of reservation request and receive
a complimentary upgrade (if applicable) or 10% off the nightly rate.
18
Cenizo
Second Quarter 2010
Flat-footed on the desert floor,
I am chance incarnate, nothing more.
For want of water or a shard of shade,
I might be undone, as I am made
of vulnerable stuff:
delicate vessels, shocking impulses,
humid interiors, and bone enough
to stand upright inside my skin.
But when I see this pile of rocks,
heap of crumbs from Earth’s own crust,
my hunger for the challenge numbs
all fear of falling. I try to trust
my corporal self.
Eyes to the summit, taking aim,
one boulder at a time, I climb.
Legs stretch wide to cross a void;
I slide my soles along a shelf,
intent and action all the same,
each finger to its purpose,
scraping at the faulty surface.
How lovely are the levers of my arms, I think;
elegant and quite complete
the concert of synapses sweet song
lifts me to the brink,
where I recline at 30 degrees,
fully prone,
flesh and bone against the stone,
limbs splayed, sweat scattered,
the world entire
in my embrace, its breath against my face
in dry gusts of birdcall
and grasshopper chatter.
Lauren Martini