The calendar blocks
stared back at me
like five rows of teeth
chattering in my ears
about days I’ve lost,
time I’ve wasted.
The “O” in October
snaked out to me
like an accusing tongue
and the other letters
shook their heads.
Only one day remains
in the tenth month,
then I can turn the page.
Maybe November
won’t be so judgmental.

-- Christopher Hivner