Hazard

		                for J. M.

                                           by Susan Stevens


			If you have been 
			there before it's still
			the first time like
			accretions surrounding
			a burl new layers
			incipient each time 
			new eyes plumb
			yours in genesis
			of where you have
			already been
			can't guess or
			guarantee the
			outcome is new no
			matter how ancient
			the humanity there are 
			no comparisons to be
			made no connections
			that will help
			in virgin soil all
			is primitive riotous
			your meeting someone
			else is primeval
			and you must not
			presuppose for that
			is barbarism or drift
			all is intentional
			your eyes will say
			all anyone presently
			needs to know