by Rochelle Ratner
An Iranian runs the borders, circling the U. S., and immigration authorities wave him past. Been there. Done that. He starts in New York on Father’s Day, runs south along the east coast, then the borders of Florida and Texas, up through California, along the Canadian border, then back down. 90 kilometers a day. His father, were he still alive, would be proud of him. 201 days. Sometimes he lets a foot fall across the border and give three little taps. Sometimes he zig-zags.
Rochelle Ratner's latest poetry books include Leads (Otoliths Press, 2007), Balancing Acts (Marsh Hawk Press, 2006), Beggars at the Wall (Ikon, 2006) and House and Home (Marsh Hawk Press, 2003). She is the author of fifteen previous poetry collections and two novels (Bobby’s Girl and The Lion’s Share) both published by Coffee House Press). More information and links to her writing on the Internet can be found on her homepage.
