Lacrima

Human tears when collected,

And viewed through a microscope

As precipitate, come to resemble

Frost patterns on window panes

Compelling liquid force

Inhale exhale transforms

Human tears when collected,

And viewed through a microscope

As precipitate, come to resemble

Foundations of ancient towns

Inhale exhale transforms

Tears are orbs then pools

Human tears when collected,

And viewed through a microscope

As precipitate, come to resemble

Tank treads biting through snow

Compelling liquid force

Not nacreous

Human tears when collected,

And viewed through a microscope

As precipitate, come to resemble

Sutures in cranial bones

Liquid compelling force

Pre-breath post-breath transforms

Laura Stickney 2022

Notes:

lacrima--a tear

precipitate--solids separated from liquid

nacreous--pearly

sutures--immovable joint between two bones

image--detail of watercolor by Laura Stickney