Speak first with bullets
then maybe words.
Aim and squeeze
don’t pull, don’t breathe.

Speak loud with bombs
light up that night sky
lanterns float and fall,
becoming exploding fireflies.

Speak quick with anger
among mobs and fire,
candlesticks and powder,
pure hatred, pure power.

Speak strong with pride,
tea kettle black ice,
warming and simmering
–infectiously spreading.

Speak first with love
and all falls down
when they push you
against the wall.