Wunderpus Photogenicus

If octopuses dream, 

then it is probably brief. 

They likely dream 

to consolidate memories, 

solve small puzzles. 

Octopuses are known problem solvers.

The Wunderpus Photogenicus

changes its shape, size, and color

to get out of harm's way. 

If it were that easy, 

I would be shaped like you. 

Big, strong, gone. 

Octopuses use their siphons for

respiration and locomotion. 

As if with every wishful breath

I could propel myself 

back into your arms. 

You visited me in a dream 

to brush my hair. 

That was enough. 

I woke up looking for you—

my body, wet from sweat 

my long hair, a poor girl’s tentacles,

reaching out in every direction

just to be tangled up 

in memories 

of your tenderness. 

I am not an octopus. 

I have solved nothing.