Outing, Frances Boyle (June 2026)

Outing
After Emily Dickinson, “I started Early – Took my Dog”

I started early – took my dolphin
and wandered as I went.
The ribbons of the seaweed curls
were all the coin I spent.
 
Started early – took my dollop
of sweet and creamy clouds,
fine-spun threads – one mounting bulk
that echoed dark – and loud.
 
I started early – took my dole
of tender life – and crumbs.
A clatter offstage jittered me
in shades of quince and plum.
 
I started early – took my doll
to settle – shaky hands.
The ears of scent – the taste of sky
bewildered every plan.