Escape Proof

by Todd Sukany

When the Master of the Universe laid out

the ranks and files for eternity, He was fully engaged.

He, a chess player savant, rehearsed every move

and its consequences. Once fully satisfied, He

accounted for taxes, spittle, wind and waves,

bitter waters, passing pigs, one hundred fifty-three

fish, massive rejection. He allowed room

for His highest creation to choose checkmate,

again.