Words to My Loved Ones in the Nuclear Fallout

Fallout Shelter Sign

I’ll see you next time,
beloved
and if I don’t,
know I’m always there
listening
waiting
for you

I am in the blood you cough up
I am in the blistering skin
and dimming sun
I am the rain filled with acid
I am in your quiet sleep, know
I always dream of you

People may forget,
but the scorched earth will heal
and we will be two ferns
growing together
after the eons
when our mother again gives birth
and the waters clear
and the dust settles
and the wind sings your name
my children, my children
come home, come home
your bed is made
and the table is set

maybe this time,
maybe this time

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