SUMAC

After Gilgamesh

Heavenly Shamash, I am on my way

The singular function of the muscle tissue is contraction. As in the 15th century contracctioun— the act of making a contract. During childbirth, the uterine muscles contract, breaking the contract between mother and child. The child, no longer a part of the mother; the mother wholly belonging to the child.

Guard my soul. Protect me and bring me safely back to Uruk

When the muscle length shortens, the contraction is concentric. Tension rises to chance its resistance. As in I will always break upon your earth.

I, daughter.

Earth, you.

I am taking a road I have never traveled

When the muscle lengthens, the contraction is eccentric. Resistance floods. As in I will pull away from your shores; my tiny sails caught in hunger.

I, daughter.

Horizon, you.

I want to walk with joy in my heart

The muscles displacement of microtraumas utilize continued eccentric contractions.

I displace gravity—lengthen

and fly your wings

I walk with joy in my heart