by Alexis Rhodes

Double-take at the ad copy: Oh
it’s not about me. (A regular reminder
is necessary.)
Please note I am
Unavailable.
Emotional labor hours have hit their quota
and overtime is billed at a rate of
$6 million per hour or
my sanity.

I have picked too many
broken locks
and been disenchanted with the contents.

Sent my dragons to defeat offenders
and my minions returned
carrying their children.
I have raised many
many
children.

I am bitter and
Southern
like a mint julep.
Meant to be savored
but used for my
effect instead.

I am Unavailable and would rather
be left alone
condensation sweating into the porch table
leaving a ring
or a stain
all my own.

Alexis Rhodes (she/her) is a queer, polyamorous poet, playwright, and performer based in North Carolina. Her poetry has been described as raw and confessional, with just enough humor to lighten the mood. Alexis has been published with Action, Spectacle, Maudlin House, Blood+Honey, Wayfarer Magazine, and more, has forthcoming publications with Paddler Press, 1922 Review, Writers Resist, The Closed Eye Open, and more. She has completed five manuscripts and is submitting to presses. Alexis lives with her husband, two kids, and a hedgehog named Hedge. Instagram: @alexis_writes_things