Poem: One
by Liy. "one: pot of gold, poisoned apple, beanstalk. an unread message."
pot of gold, poisoned apple, beanstalk.
an unread message.
how this kiss
feels like the first.
the birth of a stickman.
how we begin.
the line of an axis, where you and I
intersect at the point of origin.
a candle in a cupcake.
a signature signal to leave some party
and discover the favourite number
of our clumsy limbs.
your island on my speed dial.
365, 24, 60,
the crocodile has time in its belly
but it’s aching to bite.
your name is ticking in my throat
to a phone call I wait for every night.
Liy Yusof, 21.
🪬
Liy is a Southeast Asian Muslim knowledge worker and poet sharing their lifelong learning from the periphery. If you're new here (hello!) or need a refresher, start here for house rules. Here I maintain curated lists as a love language for others. Now is my present-day context including from my 5-year old note system. Consider subscribing for free to login and leave comments— I write slowly and send out emails rarely. If you valued what I made, tell me over DM (if we know each other) or tip me with a message— that sends a clear signal of appreciation ✨
