‘Command Me’

Donald Patten is an artist and cartoonist from Belfast, Maine. He produces oil paintings, illustrations, ceramic pieces and graphic novels. His art has been exhibited in galleries across Maine. His online portfolio is donaldlpatten.newgrounds.com/art

Command Me

There’s something mundane in mere passion.
Give me a sultry gaze—
one that lingers, refuses to fade.

A muscular frame is fantastic,
but a memorable smile keeps me dancing.
A dimple, a freckle, a confident wink—
those are what draw me.

For all my love of solitude,
there’s something thrilling
about being told what to do.

Sit with me in red hazy lights.
Give me a command—maybe two.

That’s how I test you.
Are they degrading?
I’ll walk.

Are they clever, erotic, maybe a little comedic?
Show me that masculine confidence
hides no ego,
no insecurity.

Give me a command
that makes me feel safe.
I’ll become a cat in your lap—
purring.

It isn’t as hard to tame me
as others say.
Just offer me respect,
a glint of humor,
and I’m yours.

Ryan Bolding is a queer poet based in Seattle. His work explores intimacy, autonomy, and the contradictions of modern life. Recent poems appear or are forthcoming in Cathexis Northwest Press, Neon Origami, Fjords Review, and Wingless Dreamer.