<komunyakaa's "unnatural state of the unicorn"> 2002-11-24.7:54 p.m. Unnatural State of the Unicorn Yusef Komunyakaa Introduce me first as a man. Don't mention superficial laurels the dead heap up on the living. I am a man. Cut me & I bleed. Before embossed limited editions, before fat artichoke hearts marinated in rich sauce & served with imported wines, before antics & Agnus Dei, before the stars in your eyes mean birth sign or Impression, I am a man. I've scuffled in mudholes, broken teeth in a grinning skull like the moon behind bars. I've done it all to be known as myself. No titles. I have principles. I won't speak on the natural state of the unicorn in literature or self-analysis. I have no birthright to prove, no insignia, no secret password, no fleur-de-lis. My initials aren't on a branding iron. I'm standing here in unpolished shoes & faded jeans, sweating my manly sweat. Inside my skin, loving you, I am this space my body believes in. back /& forth /& frosting names are often sad