mistranslating “translating translating Joseph Burgess’ John
Clare” by Justin, Etc.
by Susan Calvillo
a deflated life vest can make the
difference
hanging over a headboard it’s a conversation
starter after she breaks her pinky in bed
the
crow’s nest is there to save you
for last when sinking
that is…unless you’re just another grumpy sea
monster
not in the mood
for overcast waters as you sleep on
your bed of tube worms
preying
on their hydrothermal vents
you
were half-merman, I thought
I can’t believe
I can’t believe you’re shaved for
this
I’m sorry I got lipstick on your
coffee cup she said
I’m
sorry you said
for bringing my wife along again
the Flying Duchess
may be a Fata Morgana
unlikely, she told you
not
before sunrise
one morning in the salt mist
you should like to make a mirage of
her
the sound of sails heaving
the
ebb of lips and ships
so that her head may be
always above water
then her broken pinky
might not
interrupt
the groping sea
