All the windows were open 

and we could hear the birds complaining 

as the moon snapped bites out of the sun 

swallowing fire 

to create shadow 

as sticky as tar 

We warned the children 

but they wouldn’t listen 

and now they’re all marooned 

in the vastness of the yard 

and we’re calling around 

trying to gather a rescue party 

but everyone we reach 

has problems of their own 

and the kids might have to wait until morning 

to slick their feet 

with the thin dew, 

then try to inch their way home. 

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Patricia Russo's work has appeared in One Art, Zin Daily, Wild Greens, Vagabond City, and Eulogy Press.