Alec Solomita’s fiction has appeared in the Southwest Review, The Mississippi Review, Southword Journal, and The Drum (audio), among other publications. He was shortlisted by the Bridport Prize and Southword Journal. His poetry has appeared in The Ekphrastic Review, Gnashing Teeth Publishing, The Galway Review, Bold + Italic, Litbreak, Subterranean Blue Poetry, The Blue Nib, Red Dirt Forum, and elsewhere. His chapbook, “Do Not Forsake Me,” was published in 2017 and is still available at Finishing Line Press and Amazon. His first full-length book of poetry was published last April by Kelsay Press. He lives in Massachusetts.

As the World Turns

Gearing up for nuptials once again,
digging out a sad suit from closets past —
five black dress shoes, not a pair among them.

Some rituals vanish for the duration,
Some, as the rest of the world changes, persist,
some, like weddings, go in and out of style.

Now, back come the fittings, suits, ties,
family-only rehearsal dinners, name cards,
step-children scattered throughout the hall.

The toasts, the waltzing, the open bar,
the wedding presents!

I recall when all you needed
to please the bride and groom
on their special day
was jeans, sandals,
and a sprig of dope in bloom.