Mogollon Rim

Down that fire road outside of Payson, the 

Field we lay in last spring, a green ridge spans 

Our vision, jutting deep into the blue.  

Ravens cackled, brushed our ears with stealth.  We 

Burned popcorn and ate it anyway.  Out 

Away from fire’s heat and light the frigid

Milky way stars wend their way.   Heart in ear 

And throat, the taste and sound of love—sweet warm

Blood—the whine and bellow of breeding elk, 

A jurassic park of desires, all those

Desperate animal cries.  A gunshot, 

Two.  Bundled layers between us, our plans 

Linger outside the tent.  Thrilling at my 

Question, your answer, your careful story.