Motorcycle Woman

by Hannah Henning

You were cool 

Black cruiser in your garage 

Wheels laced with an electric green trim

Engine full of life, she was hardly neglected

Last I heard it’s with aunt Sherrill 

That summer was so cruel 

The heat unbearable 

In dreams, you appear like a mirage

Never cold 

You'd keep your sliding door 

Always open 

I never knew you had so many friends

But it wasn't a surprise 

Your heart 

Like the beat of a rock song: 

Classic 

Familiar 

“Take It Easy” your mantra 

Duffy I adored, your great dane 

Who bonded with me through 

Games of hide and seek 

Never gave up seeking 

Though I was out of treats 

Like he had something to prove 

A pride you both shared 

I never found meaning in stars 

But you and I are taurus sisters 

Both sprouting with horns

You had an eye for beautiful things

Amethyst geode on your mantel

With its purple shards like an open jaw

Waiting to be oohed and aahed

And a basket of polished rocks

My childhood's greatest treasure 

My favorite pair of earrings 

Are from your jewelry box 

Cerulian beads and silver stars

Dangling 

Like Stevie Nicks’ dream

I still feel like a poser 

Wearing your Harley Davidson sweaters

Auditioning for a part already filled

When I learned we share a middle name,

I stopped telling people mine was ugly

Wore it like a patch of honor 

You were real cool