"Houdini" by Noreen Lawlor

Houdini

By Noreen Lawlor

Levitate like some Indian fakir in a trance,

prove that the human will can dominate form

over matter, matter into form, or at least transcend.

Master any art, be a hero; in short, practice, practice,

practice till you can fly, though you know it takes

a miracle to slip the cuffs or a sleight of hand to trick

the gods or the guards, fend off the bombs,

defeat the despot, restore the severed head, mend

the broken wing or heart. Houdini, how we need

you now, send the long awaited note, let us know

how you did it and if you ever made it home.