Family Circle

by Kala Ramesh and Michael Dylan Welch

First published in Mariposa #49, Autumn–Winter 2023, page 24. Originally written in November of 2016.

turning the pages

of a family album . . .

autumn light Kala

fallen leaves on the skylight—

father’s shaver changes pitch Michael

the baby

takes her first step . . .

the moon in a puddle Kala

mother’s shawl

in reds and yellows—

the scent of apple pie Michael

cleaning new rice

grandma hums a ballad Kala

Thanksgiving Day—

the extension added

to the dining-room table Michael