“A Farmer’s Childhood” by Mandy Austin Cook
pots and pans clanging
over an unlit campfire
and a tablecloth lean-to
that Pappaw made himself.
a girl scout patch jacket
warm embraces of apple blossom breezes
and a pocket knife that whittles
go moo at Mr. Bull and he will moo back
pat his head through the gate: we won’t tell anybody
that he only LOOKS like he’s mean.
(he says it’s a secret)
the baby ducks will love you
following you around chattering their constant affection
go to the creek
to tickle the tiny turtle in the path
and his name from now on shall be Abner.