Philomene Long

Poet Laureate of Venice, CA and Queen of Bohemia

A poet needs air, some nutrients, and time.
--Philomene Long

VENICE WINDWARD PLAZA POET'S WALL

Venice
Holy Ground
Stained with the blood of poets
City which lies
Beneeath the breasts of birds
Guarded by cats
Behind every corner
The Muse, Angel of Surprise
Poems out of pavement cracks

--Philomene Long

EXCERPT FROM QUEEN OF BOHEMIA

I, who once was proud
That they called me
“The Queen of Bohemia”
Now blush, ashamed
“John Thomas!” I call
“I’m trying to bring myself
Out of something -
To nothing...
I’m going to pray
To embrace this poverty!”

“Pray to embrace silence
We already have poverty!” he says.
“Hey. We’re doing pretty well
For a tired old man
And a crazy lady.
Tomorrow I’ll get you
A crown of rhinestones.
Do I give you enough?”

“John, to have you
For my companion
Through the glass centuries
Your diamond body
Calm, enormous land-
This is the only center
That I seek.”

--Philomene Long