GROWING UP IN WEST VIRGINIA: A POEM FOR MY CHILDHOOD

The mud and gunk stick to my boots The stink of wool clings to my hands and hair A bark and a holler call me inside Warmth from the oven fills my spirit, While the smell of fresh bread warms my soul Strawberry and cinnamon swirl around, Combining with suds and steam Lemony syrup binds my hair into its curls A pomegranate candle holds me close as I begin to rest Sending me off to dreams of my cornfields