(Reading tip: if you are reading this on your phone screen, turning the screen sideways will result in a correct placement of each line; otherwise, they are broken up in unusual and not especially poetic fashion.)
Social Distance
No visiting.
No soliciting.
Stay six feet apart.
Shelter-in-place,
Sequestered–
But we are not alone,
For all that–
I’m here, writing this
You’re there, reading it
And every day brings
Some new, small interaction
Perhaps unexpected, but
Always welcome: a laugh,
A tear, a nod: yes that’s
Just like me; a headshake:
No, I don’t agree; we like, heart,
Thumbs-up, share posts,
All proof that even at a distance,
Together only through technology,
And even if we’ve never met
Or heard of one another before,
We are still here, still human,
Ever reaching out to connect.
(Originally written 4/14/2020)
I invite those who are also writing creatively in response to the pandemic to share their words in the comments below. I am sharing the “poem-a-day” on Instagram and Twitter, as well; follow me @mridleyelmes !
Melissa Ridley Elmes 