“Afterward (or, The Bridge)
Because desire always exceeds
its object. Because the energy you gave me
feels big enough to birth wings. Because
I want you to push into the wetness
and I know it. Because of the salt
and the wind. Because everything
that is supposed to happen
will happen, is happening, or
has already happened. Because
ambivalence is more beautiful
than justice. Because my heart is
shooting ahead, and I have no choice
but to follow it. Because I want you
to be happy, with or without me.
Because of the birds fleeing the storm.
Because the harbor is permeable
and shining. Because it felt like
that last night of my life
but it wasn't. Because a web of cables
is there to catch me if I blow
sideways, and always will be. Because
I walked across the bridge and was free.”
―
Maggie Nelson,
Something Bright, Then Holes
