August 27, 2019 · Issue 1: In Transit

Yusuf

trapped in a moving train
knee to knee with an archangel

sun radiating off sandy complexion
manicured stubble lining jawline

sharp and effortless
taste of blood floods to my mouth

Ya Khaaliq, You are the exuberant Creator

a lustful glimpse darts from my nazar
I dutifully lower my carnal gaze

now my eyes fixate on his spread legs
in tight dark wash jeans

Ya Khuda, You test the limits of
how many glances can I steal until

he notices this
faggot

I melt

I become

pond, still water
echo his beauty
will he be narcissus &
fall in