Voice of yours fling to the heavens
On the hard backs of mossy turtles and spiny

dye-murex. Squeeze purple sap over

Mountain majesty, where I stain my teeth and fill
My belly until tart juice seeps out

the rough hem of my mouth. I am a glutton

For your beauty, a thirsty well-dipper,
Frantic, needy, lapping salty beads like ocean taffy–

humid breath collects inky words,

Descending the sea fret. The stars are on fire

And I have forgotten the sun.

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Julia Hill is a music photojournalist living in New Jersey and can be found most nights in Philly covering a show. Her debut poem “Monopoly on Death,” was featured in the 2024 October issue of The Lake. Julia’s poetry focuses on the dynamics of womanhood, nature, and love.