A Didactic Necessity by Deshi Basa (17, California)

My comrades, listen.
Never once dismiss the
Forest within whose bramble 
Cradles the embers of
You.
Within labyrinthine twigs flickers the
Burgeoning fairytales cloaked in embryo and
Dream.
Know this.

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The flames of campfire are singing.
Your lightness flows 
through rivulets noxious with
Fangs multiplying scarlet 
Contagion whose vaccine rests
As flickers. For moribund
Lightness strengthens with the
Prodding of breath I see your
Strength in every shrub and leaf.
This land is empty save the battlecry
From the rampart of tomorrows
To you.
My darling, purify with innocence of 
You.

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