“muscular lies like hips of dancers” – Robert Kelly
There were the dumb lies, with cosmetic muscles
reinforcing their tissues, pumping
high protein-lies
ready to lift and hold again and again
strong, but not convincing anyone of their confidence.
Then there were the new lies
testing their strength
some fit and some weak
looking for a chance to beat someone up
or live a little longer
or look better next summer.
Weak lies did the least work
tanning, walking a little on a treadmill
focused on amenities and aesthetics
distracted by the juice bar
making small promises to themselves.
A few old lies, trying hard
but feebly
unwilling to quit, unable to generate change.
Finally, there were a few you could tell had been at this a long time
muscular lies
lean, sharp-eyed and slow-moving
quick in the moment, when needed
athletic hearts and sinew
endurance over speed
the knowledge of repetition and observation
deep reflexes
rare, yes, and strong
enduring lies
who would not die of natural causes.
ohheyian 