Cold Heaven

Elisabeth Murawski

I can remember much forgetfulness.
Hart Crane

Pink Jackie’s back in the car.
The shot, the slump, the gore.

Bits of brain and hair
hurtle through the air.

The taste of bitter myrrh.
Ha! She will not take a shower,

America! Cowboy nation:
Let them see what they’ve done!

Vodka and valium. Troubled sleep.
Does she have a soul to keep?

The only way through is through.
What fool said that? Who?

A dice roll to forget.
Unstoppable. Kismet.

Sunny, no bubbletop to cover.
In 6.9 seconds it’s all over.

Pink Jackie in a flood.
Pink Jackie shortstop on the hood

chasing pieces of his head.
Hysterical roses yellow and red.

The lunatic movie while she lives.
The cant of the mourning doves.

Elisabeth Murawski is author of Heiress, Zorba’s Daughter, Moon and Mercury, and two chapbooks.
Originally published:
July 1, 2018

Featured

Searching for Seamus Heaney

What I found when I resolved to read him
Elisa Gonzalez

What Happened When I Began to Speak Welsh

By learning my family's language, I hoped to join their conversation.
Dan Fox

When Does a Divorce Begin?

Most people think of it as failure. For me it was an achievement.
Anahid Nersessian

You Might Also Like

Sunday with George

Elisabeth Murawski

Watch

Elisabeth Murawski


A Literary Gift in Print

Give a year of The Yale Review—four beautifully printed issues featuring new literature and ideas.
Give a Subscription