The Marbled Sigh

Gazelle Eating a Lion 9/30/23

I need the money and today is the
last of the month, which means I need to work.

I need the money and today I’ll write
articles before sending an invoice.

I need the money and I am waiting
for an editor to approve my peace.

I need the money because this country
demands I make and spend, so I’ll amend

the need for money and postpone my hair-
cut for another day. Having the money

and needing the money won’t coincide.
I’m pressed for time and nothing is mine when

I need the money. I will sign my name
on my author’s bio that says I like

snowboarding and books. It doesn’t say
I need the money.

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Samuel Louis Spencer is an emerging poet and journalist based in Tampa. He loves snowboarding, traveling, and wasting time.