Figures

By Harlequin Crow

Jet Set 

It’s hard to pack  

every aspect 

of self 

into a suitcase 

with only enough space 

for essentials –  

a concept too vast  

for checked baggage. 

Something  

inevitably sacrificed 

to the practicality 

of efficient packing, 

only so much space  

available for 

articles of expression –  

assuming the climate 

even allows 

a cute pair of shoes, 

tights, a dress, 

or makeup.  

---

Figure Modelling 

The skritch-skritch-skritch 

of pencils caress 

the curves and shadows 

my body expresses  

as muscles protest 

unfamiliar postures. 

Minor suffering 

for the sake of art, 

rewarded in sketches 

which reflect a beauty 

I never dared dream 

I might possess.  

---

Harlequin Crow is a Poetic Pansexual and burlesque spoken word artist destroying the patriarchy one act of beauty at a time. Based in Kingston, Ontario, Canada, his work has appeared in his debut collection Queerhalla, published by Alien Buddha Press, as well as various publications including QT Lit Mag, and Shadow and Sax. In addition he has also graced stages throughout Canada and the Northern U.S. Follow Harlequin on Instagram: @harlequinburlesque

Photo credit: Jordan Hagivassilis