D Major

Calloused fingertips press against steel and nylon strings. They curl,Hammer-on some notes, and let others sing a softer song. One, two,One, two, three, four…The tempo pulses like a hammering heart.Relax, press, pick, strum. I pluck each note with intent. StartDown the frets, fingers slide, making a tinny squeal.

Swaying my body with the four-four beat I nod my head andTap my feet. The instrument’s curve and my lap fit one anotherReadily, like lock and key. Vibrating strings buzz at my fingertips.Up and down, up and down, my hand strokes the six lines,Mesmerized, intoxicated, giving in. I’m letting the music play.