WHEN THE LEVEE BREAKS by Brian Scannell

There is a device in my head

like a battered levee

that provides my sole defense

in sanctity of mind

Inside its walls, ideas and principles

stretch out like rows of town homes

safe and secure,

yet painted with doubt

Outside these walls

the waves of an endless sea

relentlessly lap and surge,

lulling me to sleep

Empty wine bottles

and ill-conceived curiosities

function like embittered youth

taking pot-shots at helicopters

Days trudge quickly by

without nuance or intention

Respite finds me mocking doom and

watching gulls glide fearlessly toward eternity