July 2024
Rhonda Melanson
rhondamelanson4@gmail.com
rhondamelanson4@gmail.com
Bio Note: A graduate of Queen’s University Artist In The Community Education Program, I have been published in several print and online magazines. I am the author of two chapbooks: Gracenotes (Beret Days Press) and My Name is Mary (Alien Buddha Press). I also co-edit the literary blog Uproar.
Author's Note: A kendama is a traditional Japanese skill toy. It consists of a handle, a pair of cups, and a ball that are all connected together by string.
Author's Note: A kendama is a traditional Japanese skill toy. It consists of a handle, a pair of cups, and a ball that are all connected together by string.
Boys Playing Kendamas And The Rise of Donald Trump
N is the alpha male in my classroom this year--
the one who trips me up. leaves me unbalanced.
Why can’t we play Kendamas?
Is it cause they’re from Japan?
Are you racist?
I nail my will to their flared crucifix toy,
hang from its wood, suspend myself with string,
realize the ball it holds spins in reckless hands.
Can we play after CNN 10?
Are they gonna have Donald Trump on?
You think he's gonna win?
Recruitment is easy, like the tricks it plays.
contraband I can no longer stop
as N's converts stand in uniform circles,
two dimensional new worlds.
They rehearse their new mantra:
keep our eyes on the ball
and it will land in the cup of plenty.
After all, their bends have been practiced;
They are ready to take the plunge
and their guttural moans are both their own
rewards and collateral damage.
The eggshells I walk on daily implode.
©2024 Rhonda Melanson
Editor's Note: If this poem(s) moves you please consider writing to the author (email address above) to say what it is about the poem you like. Writing to the author is what builds the community at Verse Virtual. It is very important. -JL