Inside my dream, a dream. A cat sunning itself in the bay window. A small party. Silk, satin, some other materials. There are strangers who have loved me. There are lovers who have left me. I have written tirelessly about both. Fast traffic. Wet snow. The sound of acrylic nails tapping on a wooden bar-top counter. The smell of citrus on your mouth sipping an Old Fashioned. Once, we went to a movie and forgot to watch. Once, we went to the store and came home with sour milk. I sometimes wonder why our childhood bedrooms seem so much smaller as adults. Perfume. Hand soap. A song, playing from a spinning record. Gravel sounding under stumbling feet. A car door slamming shut. Listen –— I need to tell you something. — ANDREA LAWLER
Andrea Lawler is a poet, essayist, and short story writer. She holds a degree in English Language & Literature. She is the founder of two non-profits: Keeping Emmons County Clean & Frankie’s Feline Sanctuary. She currently lives in North Dakota with her three cats.