to upend the box

I approached the box made of slurried wood chips
with scissors.
The slice along the top eager, contents still a concept.
Unveiled with a satisfying tear that snaps tiny strings.

The inside—outside. Suspense suspended.
To upend the box and repeat the slice. A pause.
Does the response define character? How do you remove
gunk from scissors?

In response to the September Poetry Prompt Calendar: 9/19/2026
Inspired by And the Water Lies Plainly by Laurie Sheck

Note: I’ve been thinking a lot about cardboard boxes lately because the elementary students in my STEAM Class are being invited to construct cardboard chairs that can hold their weight.