Author Information
"Up Until"
by Jeph Johnson
They think they're clumsy
And need words of affirmation
So I say I think they're more coordinated.
My heart feels numb
All my extremities need stimulation,
So this is what we've formulated.
I'm not dumb.
The smile's for our rapport
Brown-eyed, tan and handsome
High heels clacking
Across the hard wood floor
My money pays the ransom
It's for something I was lacking
And furthermore
For both of us it's knowing
It's such a strange arrangement
Sugar was my downfall
Now it's all that keeps us going
Spent on this entertainment
Watching the gown fall
All the skin is showing
Now perched upon my lap
Hands bracing my shoulders
I want to do this right
So my hand playfully slaps
So long I've longed to hold
So I make sure they're held tight
There's no gap
Between us at this instant
Sliding, cascading,
Then they move away
And our air between feels distant
Made-up, masquerading
Our ballet
Now nonexistent
Because they need a sultry smoke
From the cartridge of vapor
Outside in the breeze
So I tell a joke
About "having her and holding her"
And what's funny is they cleave
Up until I'm broke
