Falsework

Before the work crews
build a bridge to carry light

rail over I-5,
they must first
build the falsework
that will hold the job in place.

When it falls away,
behold.

But until then
be held

by falsework.

Don’t today’s trusses—
a shower,
a drink, a tune on the piano—
carry us?

February, 2021

Published in “Shops Close Too Early,” September 2022