(blues singer once known as “Little Esther”)

After clinging so hard to the side of the ship
Along the edge
There was only water beneath
The steep hill climbed made hard with feet
After the snow in hot places
Distant and hungry
The blood you shared, not mythical but actual
Not at this late state, Little Esther, not now when
You sang “What A Difference A Day Makes”
Don’t go back now where there is no music
Your face is in your hands like used soil
Sing it out again. You’re almost home.
Don’t take that sick stuff more.
Chase those devils back. Don’t leave us. Not after all this.