This poem owes its origins to the early stages of COVID. My husband and I were desperate for a change of scenery but determined to limit risk, so we challenged ourselves to a zero-contact camping trip out west. We brought a propane stove, nonperishable food, shower wipes, etc. We found ways to be in community from a safe distance, and we experienced the majesty that can grow out of scarcity. This poem was an attempt to harness that dualism.

Christy Prahl is the author of We Are Reckless (forthcoming from Cornerstone Press). A Pushcart Prize and Best of the Net nominee, her publications include the Penn Review, Eastern Iowa Review, and others. She splits her time between Chicago and rural Michigan and appreciates subways and siloes in equal measure.

W: christyprahl.wixsite.com/christy-prahl
F: Christy Prahl