The Smog That Rides the Salt Lake/Davis County Line

Out it comes,
equinox-crossed
and it’s winter again. She holds her breath.

The aliens haven’t adjusted well. They carry inhalers,
wear masks. State-issued
warnings: Avoid

driving, stay inside. None of this air is translucent. It turns
and it turns out this city’s in a rut, rated 9^th
overall. #9 Toxic.

She licks her lips, a bit
Fire Engine Rose, a hint copper. A peach pit on the counter—
the fruit already in her stomach—

ground up, or bit down

that small core of cyanide
can kill
a bird, a dog, a child. Some aliens

lobby congress for stricter policies: to lessen
the scent of old eggs and black toast. The people shake
hands, nod and grit

statements about basic chemistry, differences in atmosphere.
No burning, fire-
works okay with USE CAUTION. If breathing

is troubled, take heed.

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Natalie Young

NATALIE YOUNG is a founding editor and graphic designer for the poetry magazine Sugar House Review, based out of Salt Lake City. Her poems have appeared in Tar River Poetry, Rattle, South Dakota Review, Tampa Review, terrain.org, and others. She is a fan of swiss cheese and polka dots.

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• The Smog That Rides the Salt Lake/Davis County Line - December 20, 2013