Sides

The dance begins,
always in this way.

We stand,
eyes locked.

If I were not here,
you would not be.

Partnered but apart,
we mirror each other.

You have a job to do,
as do I.

If the music
is not well chosen,

if the beat
thunders, roars,

or

if the riff
seduces and sways,

our dance will
tremble or explode.

We might embrace
like lovers

whose hearts beat
the same rhythm.

Sides

Or out of sync,
our fists may clench.

We will drag bodies,
cross lines, rebound

like rubber bullets
off riot gear.

The dance begins,
always this way.

Eyes locked--

I on one side,
you on the other.