“Dangerous conceits are in their natures poisons” – Shakespeare, Othello

Pause a bit too prolonged, a laugh

without explanation, handkerchief

oddly misplaced. I don’t know why it’s hard

for me to trust, to see coincidence

not conspiracy, fidelity

not deceit—a call to arms at each

nameless friend.

                           Abandon daggers, spill

poisoned wine, restrain, submerge acrid

jealousy—and as for honest Iago,

drown him, burn the fucking handkerchief.

© Gianluca Avanzato

Gianluca Avanzato is an American writer and poet from Upstate New York currently living in Berlin. He recently self-published a collection of poems titled, “City of the Hills,” about growing up in his hometown of Oneonta. His poetry has been published in Union College’s literary magazine, “The Idol,” as well as a short story, “Ich bin ein Berliner,” published online by Coldnoon International Journal of Travel Writing & Travelling Cultures. Check out Gianluca’s Instagram here:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gavanzato/