Aged tiger maple and rosewood
mesh together in a linear progression.
Hairline fractures pockmark the surface of the lacquer;
deep scratches pepper the patched timber.
An oil-coated scroll retains countless stories.

Words soft as silk roll away from silver,
ear-piercing screams melt off gold.
Steel sings a much sweeter song,
while baritone commences with mane brushing iron.

Ears open, eyes closed.
Tactile sense working to press on the fretless board.
Cheek to chin, finger to finger,
all working in unison to achieve a common goal.

A velour throne prevents catastrophe,
locking its melodious voice inside.
The other half snapped back into place:
like a rider settling into a saddle.