[audioplayer file=”https://admin.rattle.com/audio/OutcaltOn.mp3″]
ON THE FIRST ANNIVERSARY OF HIS WIFE’S DEATH
He thinks that time will heal. But this is fable.
He tries to call her friends. But is not able.
He wants to venture out. But is not stable.
Her photograph remains upon the table.
—from Rattle #35, Summer 2011
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Todd Outcalt: “A few months ago I was having lunch with a friend on the anniversary of his wife’s death. This poem was an attempt to honor his experience. Although most of my writing through the years has been of longer variety (books, essays, stories), I often discover that a poem can speak more vividly and powerfully to a particular moment, conversation or emotion.”