Ampibian by Randal LaGro with Rivers by Jen Acampora

                                                  
       Rivers

       I want mangrove swamps

       hot indolent humidity

       languid tangled under

       growth low and lush

       backwater bayous.

       Be thankful, the rio says

       here in the clear-bright air

       for the hard blue horizon

       and the sudden rush of rain.

       But I know this shallow singing.

       Thin and reedy, a thread

       in the prickled hills winding

       through pebbles and thorns

       transparent, clean, quick.

                                                   
       Not deep and groaning
       not full-bellied with secrets
       sorrow-soaked bones

       and warm amniotic murk
            
       I want the Susquehanna

       the Delaware, the Hudson
       the muddy Maumee
       slow with rot and flesh.

       giant carp washed along

       its banks, empty eye sockets gaping

       I want to open that watery coffin

       to delve dark in that unknown liquid.