Laughter

by Sami Bennett Quinn

I can tickle you, you who are not ticklish.

I love to give you that little tickle
That sets a spark in your vocal cords
That shines in your eyes
When you open your mouth and sing
That universal song
That anyone can recognize

Our very own song, like a bird song
No need to memorize a note,
Or write it down and copyright,
Or know the difference between
High and low
Slow and fast
Staccato and legato
Crescendo or diminuendo

It is our song

And no matter what it’s like
It is ours, and that rings true
Every time
I tickle you.