humpty dumpty in oakland* (for frank c.)

Two slices of white.
Blank, like a newly
stretched
canvas. Rye. Sesame.
Lightly toasted
on one side.

Squeezed.
Pinched.
Kneaded.

She is a woman
of unshakable conviction.
Of doughy complexion.
Evangelical.
Unleavened.

Curled at the edges now, not
so easily
buttered up.

Frankly, my dear...

it takes a brave man to play
ball
and try to put his life
together
again.

* the title, "Humpty Dumpty in Oakland", is borrowed from an early novel by Philip K. Dick, a writer of relentless fortitude in pursuit of the rent.