Pneumonoultramicroscopicsilicavolcanoconiosis

there are certain flowers

that can only blossom

under a blanket

of volcanic ash.

how i wish i could

shed my skin,

reveal the scorched earth

of my soul.

there are also certain diseases

that only infect

through the bitter smoke

of volcanic eruption.

how i worry

that i am less flower

and more pathogen,

better left dormant.