Mackenzie Keys

On Summer Nights Like These, I Wish I Had A Southern Drawl

Like smooth molasses dripped over sweet bread,

I'd draw out my vowels ‘till all

My "sirs" and "ma'ams" became the lingual music notes

Of a pacified fiddle. I imagine

Southerners know the affect of their vocal chords

Upon an unsuspecting ear. If possessed the drawl,

I'd be mesmerized by the tune of my own voice.

In the heat, I could lull my spirit

And watch the fireflies dance as they wink

In and out of the dark to mimic the stars.

The crickets sound the subtle symphony

As the flutter of the tall grass

Mirrors the light playing of wind instruments.

The radiating warmth of the thickened air

Elicits beads of sweat to slide down my weighted limbs

And the salt on my skin compels my movement.

Leaving the rocking chair, I walk

Through the rolling field. I hum

A song to compliment the crickets and the stalks.

The humming gives breathe to singing;

The swaying turns into the rhythmic steps of dancing.