I Might Mean

I hear myself and others beginning
many phrases with “I mean…”
And it sticks out to me,
now that I’ve unwillingly
isolated it.

What do the means mean,
when we say, “I mean”
before far too many phrases
than necessary?

In defense of language,
that is in her nature—
to follow some arbitrary
path of cultural change.

I mean to know not
All that I could
In an effort for
Gain of contentedness
Failed.

Mean to spread Joy—I tell you again.
Inch the rain out the way of marina platform.
Harbor nine made fire found fibers
out of those meant.

I go nonsense for you joyless maidens.
To land go you eerie old creatures
past.

Say what you will about
motive—one and the rest.

“I mean” sticks out
like a cautionary neon
translated:
Just know—I’m mean.

And I am.