for Swirve (6/3/26)

The notes argue with each other
in a way that suggests agreement
is for other styles of music. A cymbal

vibrates like a kitchen timer warning
something is about to be burning.
Notes fall out of the trumpet’s bell

in rapid succession, marching on
to a tight snare drum, as the guitar
walks a fret board’s plank, balancing

high above a roiling ocean of sound.
This trio is on a trip with suitcases
full of mixed metaphors. Even words

have put down their phones to listen.

– Robert Wynne