Perry L. Powell’s most recent poem to appear here was “The Pigeon” (June 2016). 

Siren Sisters
By Perry L. Powell

I hear you singing
over the waves
through the foam and chill air
and it is only dreams
you promise.

Tied with the tightest knots,
the bristling hemp tearing skin,
blood dripping on the slatted deck,
an old man can only
listen and wish and want.

The vaunted wisdom of age
is mere truth.

Worthless as that.