Voltage

inspired by a conversation about electricity

We are electric & celestial beings. I often ponder as individuals, do we consider ourselves a part of the solar system as well?

The earth hums, sings, growls, roars, and buzzes. Deep below, currents rush through the diverse terrain that makes up all the marvelous regions we have or have yet to explore.

Grounded. ¹

A friend recently told me electricity is often grounded to protect people and prevent hazards. Now I don’t know shit about electricity, beyond the Lumiere Brothers, Edison, and Latimer. So my question wasn’t as graceful as this but I attempted to demonstrate my understanding:

Is that why Lightning rushes down? Yearning to kiss the earth in hopes of a shock, a pulse, a reunion that keeps it coming back for more — doing its best to steady its aim and not get sidetracked along the way?

you see, lightning sometimes touches the first thing that stands out. it must be hard to distinguish from its, point of view, the difference between a tree, a building, or a person. anything with a of bit metallic flare gets it to change its course … only for that charge to obliterate its recipient instead of alleviating the lack of energy matched.

Damn, not again — Lightning probably says.

maybe that’s what thunder is, a tantrum, a pep talk, venting— courage to try again.

with a bright flash lighting descends, often resembling stairs so the energy finally flows both ways — even if for a second — it’s still worth cherishing.

the path is clear this time and the debris has been swept away as it rushes down. the goalpost won’t be moved, the other shoe couldn’t possibly drop when it’s neatly lined up beside each other, and that rug is right where it should be — securely beneath stabilized feet. the hair on your arm rises, the currents hum louder, the energy is undeniable and a simple kiss can be electrifying with the right conductor.

1. I will be performing this original piece live at various open mics throughout the Los Angeles area