Carnival Charity
written by: Sterling Warner
“Oh to live on Sugar Mountain
With the barkers and the colored balloons”
—Neil Young
Lips Pucker as if
mouths held a dozen
sweet tarts in obeyance
while muscles contracted,
saliva increased sour outbursts
diluting honeyed kisses
exchanged one per
donation in county fair
booth coffers teasing,
promoting, transmitting
Chlamydia snogs;
eyes sank in teenage
craniums, rolled towards
the heavens savored tangy,
acrid jolts mixed with sweet
ambrosia palates Willy Wonka
would envy yet be unable
to capture or duplicate.
Award-winning author, poet, educator, Sterling Warner's works have appeared in literary magazines, journals, and anthologies including DANSE MACABRE, EKPHRASTIC REVIEW, and ANTI-HEROIN CHIC. Warner's collections include RAGS & FEATHERS, WITHOUT WHEELS, SHADOWCAT, EDGES, SERPENT'S TOOTH, FLYTRAPS, CRACKS OF LIGHT, and MASQUES: FLASH FICTION & SHORT STORIES. Currently, Warner writes, turns wood, participates in "virtual" poetry readings, and enjoys retirement in Washington.
Latest posts by Sterling Warner (see all)
- Carnival Charity - July 9, 2025
- Dia de los Muertos - November 1, 2024
- Throw Line Barometer - April 1, 2024
