Portraiture

Expressive supple ribbons and
wrought iron swirls festoon her arm:
a full sleeve yet no declaration of names,
only mere imagery to proclaim neutrality.

Parabolic hip bones and Bank Gothic text,
inebriated inscriptions blooming
amidst indigo veins and pubic stubble.

Nude on the bed: torso exposed,
calves sheathed in cotton.
The curvature of her collarbone
mimics my finger's journey.

We are home, not inked
but penciled in.