E.L. Blizzard

At times grief is worn on the back

or it may nestle around arms. Other times it crosses the chest to bind all breath. More often, it covers head to toe—cool spring currents can’t get through. It is never trendy or hip. It is not summer fashion even in summer. It’s woolen, prickly, prone to mildew. And these buttons are hopeless to open.

visit from friends
searching my pockets
for a smile

---

About the Author

E. L. Blizzard lives in the U.S. South. She’s published in The Other Bunny, Drifting-Sands-Haibun, cho, Bones, Wales Haiku Journal, Failed Haiku, #FemkuMag, Poetry Pea, Autumn Moon, Under the Basho, and others. She’s worked in advocacy, allying with immigrants/refugees, cis/straight/LGBTQ+ survivors of intimate partner violence, and those experiencing homelessness.