The X poem—especially tricky, given the lack of useful words that start with that letter, and since I wanted to avoid the obvious x-ray, xylophone and X marks the spot. The multifaceted XO to the rescue!

XO

1
She signed her letters
with kisses and hugs and kisses and hugs

I kept them in a box
with other parts of my past

where the damage would be contained
as long as the tape held

2
It is rare for the hashmark
to be filled in a satisfying manner

blocked patterns
and interrupted strategies
prevail over desire

Repeat

3
Hopeful looks
bated breath

anticipation
trepidation

all at the mercy
of the ring or the block

4
Awash in honey-rich amber
a slight sting on my tongue

it has been hours
I have filled the page

with futility and wishes
no answer in sight

(23 November 2016—posted November 24th)