Barbican Young Poets 2019-20

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Spellwork

Some days needed a little sorcery to see me to the next one.
I gathered what was needed: ladybird wings plucked

from the playground, sweets from my untouched
packed lunch. A basin of water to hold my head under.

A fistful of stinging nettles. Three hairs from my arms. Two blue eyes
unstitched from a beloved face. Baby doll, I’m so sorry.

I didn't know that charms were what I needed. Now I gather
flowers on flowers, cast magic circles of sweets for me to suck on.

I kiss my picture on the mantelpiece before work. Find glamour
in a soft touch on my arm. Now I tell myself I'm sorry. Lord knows

if twenty years has taught me anything, it’s that there is no magic
to be found in unpicking yourself. Now I jump into the water.

Now I kick up gently. Now my face breaks the surface into air.