Some swing the axe toward a lofty tree

then hew the logs for framing a spine.

Some collect the branches, sticks that will be 

a hollow woven ribcage entwined with vines. 

In wicker baskets, some bring speckled eggs

while others carry hens in crooks of arms.

In a glass jar, one proffers a long legged 

frog; another, last lamb from mother’s farm.

You wear a new dress, a crown in your hair

of ranunculus and baby’s breath.

For the first time in father’s eyes you’ll stare 

before you lead him towards his death. 

Though young when it happens, you understand 

we all sacrifice love to the wicker man. 

Kristin Garth is a Pushcart, Rhysling nominated sonneteer and a Best of the Net 2020 finalist.  Her sonnets have stalked journals like Glass, Yes, Five:2:One, Luna Luna and more. She is the author of 20 books of poetry including Candy Cigarette Womanchild Noir (Hedgehog Poetry Press), Flutter Southern Gothic Fever Dream (TwistiT Press), and Girlarium (Fahmidan Journal).  She is the founder of Pink Plastic House a tiny journal and co-founder of Performance Anxiety, an online poetry reading series. Follow her on Twitter:  (@lolaandjolie) and her website kristingarth.com