In forty years,
my first book of poetry
will have been published
this day.

A lean volume, with work
I’ve deemed my best
without — at last — a care in the world
for others’ thoughts or estimations.

Words joined and fastened
as I wish them to be.
No regard for rules,
                           or voice,
         or form.

My poetry tells the stories
I’ve wanted to write
my entire life
caring little if at all
as to who might wish to read them.

Judge me,
judge me not.

                  In forty years,
I’ll be 102.

Writing then
with abandon
as oh! How I wish
I was brave enough
to do so now.

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Inspired by a July 28th story in the Washington Post about a woman, Sarah Yerkes, who published her first book of poetry on June 15, 2019 at the age of 101. She began writing poetry in her 90’s.

Her book is called Days of Blue and Flame.