Reduction

Boil, then simmer
your instructions were clear.

A simple reduction 
to refine, to refresh, to renew.

Pinch of salt, anise, pepper
paprika, crushed pepper 
to add some heat.

My hand slips—crushed pepper
fills the pot, the water is boiling
not simmering as you said, you said
I needed to be careful, but look now—

Our kitchen is flooded:
boiling water, heat that stings
my chapped lips, lips you once
loved, or said you did.

You gave me instructions how to
stop these accidents, but now it’s happening
and I’m not ready for them to stop, not ready
to let your voice fade. 

Erin Jamieson’s writing has been published in over 100 literary magazines, including two Pushcart Prize nominations and two Best of Net nominations. She is the author of four poetry chapbooks, including Fairy Tales (Bottle Cap Press) and a forthcoming poetry collection. Her debut novel (Sky of Ashes, Land of Dreams) was published by Type Eighteen Books.  X/Twitter: @erin_simmer