“On Guard

I know how
to build fences.
I've built my border
for years.
Routinely, I repair
attempted entries
into
my space.
Everyone is suspect,
gray-haired women,
a child's hand
reaching in,
people disguised
as rocks,
all possible invasions.
Don't be deceived:
I savor
my isolation,
my dark interior.
Silence, please.
Your opinions
are unwelcome.
Your jabber,
your many tongues
bore me
but will never bore
into my well-guarded
space. All the un-me
is alien. I take pride
in being on guard.
I'm willing to share
my strategies–
threats, barks,
explosions–
for remaining untouched
–in here–
by the world's
garbage.”