11/3/2016
Oil burns
just past the stroke
of midnight.
The waning flame
refuses to fade,
as she gracefully dances,
breathlessly glides,
painting her naked portrait
across the flickering stage.
Still for an instant.
A glowing reprieve.
She delicately balances—en pointe—
at the edge of each bated breath.
Suspense captivates,
awaiting the next effortless step.