JOWELL TAN -

RUBICON

do i like him?

there are things that i like

about him.

i like that he makes me laugh,

and that he hugs me when i’m sad.

and when we have sex he asks

are you okay? as he lowers himself

into me.

but do i like like him?

allow me to plead the fifth.

i’m not yet ready to examine that part of me.

অিভবাসী অিভতা

(Bengali; “The Migrant Experience”)

Take my years, my sweat,

My blood to build your skyline;

just treat me like you.


Jowell Tan (b. 1988) thinks in words, which is probably why he likes to write. He’s had words published in various places - say hi to him on Twitter (@jwlltn) and he’ll gladly show them to you. He thanks you for reading, and hopes you’ll have a wonderful day.