memory, memory not

we remembered to kneel;
birds flying high — pan demic
structures that can’t contain
systems any longer,
suits any further
orders any more

what is it in us
that wanted to grow
what is it
we sought to expand,
and while we’re standing here in armor
tell me
why is it collapsing
why is it frail
and where is the trail of hope
we built
all our art for

memory, memory not
can’t, can’t not

remember