constructing poetry

we, witches three

I dream of them, sometimes,
when I’m sitting at my laptop
waiting for the next prompt to drop
like an anvil on my head.

in the vision, their heads are together,
across miles and computer wires,
and they’re rubbing their hands
together as they think up—
a witch’s brew of torture.

let’s start with form,
Ren says,
clear,
direct,
short,
wise.

Fyn nods. additionally, let’s include three
obscure required words, preferably archaic
and complicated enough that spell check
will think we’re lying. furthermore, let us
forbid all articles and pronouns, as well
as all prepositions with less than four letters.

it is at this point,
as they cackle with delight
at the thought of the hoops
the next prompt will
guide us through,
that I wake with
a cackle on my lips.

once, Fyn revealed the final prompt,
sixty forbidden words long,
followed by the real prompt,
not nearly as cruel—
but interesting, always interesting.
once, I learned Ren sees and hears all.
she took something that I said
and turned it into the prompt:
poetic particles of dust.

I loved writing that poem.
I love the obscure forms and words
(even the ones that mean my rhythm
falters) the cup requires.
I love to twist my words
into a lacework, surrounding
the words I cannot use.

and that’s why,
even when the cup feels
more than my tired mind can bear,
I am here, first,
waiting, my fingers poised
for Ren and Fyn to brew their worst—

I take it into me, and stir up something
in my own cauldron,
that amazes me.

line count: 53

Prompt ▼

Prompt for: Feb 28 (Ren/Fyn)
Subject or Theme: Have fun with this! Write about BOTH Ren and Fyn! Make it funny. Tongue in cheek! Making stuff up is okay. Being honest (but funny) is okay. Note: she and I will only write about each other, but you have to write about both of us!
Word(s) to Include: none (or any derivatives of these words)
Forbidden Word(s): none (or any derivatives of these words)
Additional Parameters: 53 lines EXACTLY.
Remember, do not use forbidden words ANYWHERE, including title or the brief description.