I feel like a river otter, sleek, with a curious nose
poking into reality. Where are you now?
Occasional leaves already fall, early dancers
without applause, while the rest hang on in red
maple fire glory. I saw beauty yesterday, a rock
with two-toned moss, drops trickling down
in sensual silence. My days start spellbound
with ravens in pairs overhead, courting, cavorting.
These golden images—where do they come from?
In your absence I could easily wear lipstick
as I won’t kiss anyone. It is raining
and I can’t remember how to live my life.
–
Beate Sigriddaughter (she/her) grew up in Nürnberg, Germany. She lives and writes in Silver City, New Mexico (Land of Enchantment), where she has served as poet laureate. Her latest poetry collection is Circus Dancer (2025).