The Chair

 

Vincent Katz

Originally published in The Evergreen Review Issue 110 in 2005.
 

One thought
not of
chair’s stance,
position

in history’s
climb, or
seat, just
where

to plop,
not arm
of excess,
determination’s

might. Then
prisoner
in cell, in
blood

and feces,
huddled
raging on
floor.

First medicine
a chair,
prop him
upright,

consolation
in dignity
position
proper

to humanity
swiftly
excised,
blank,

symbol,
cure,
tool, and
right.