Poem for a New Year I can’t see around the corner But I know we go Around again I’m gripping, slipping – garish Maws gape soundless grins – Quick brittle whinnies shine I dip and stretch; My hand is out. A carnival’s Cacophony descends like fog (I trust heaven Not to crackle tinny din. I trust heaven not to spin) I’ve had such rotten luck – But here I go again. Forgive me. I am trapped alive And my grasp’s only valid In this blare I hear you when my eyes Are shut; I see you in the silence. I feel you in my ribs. But as long as warm Blood feeds my flesh I live in two I must stretch And curl my fingers to my palm. I must sweep the breeze. Please help. I know you’ll help. I’m hanging on                   Shelley Costa                         January ’04