Utility Player

Utility Player

By Lou Turner

I turn 30 around the time I learn I’m somebody different.
I like baseball. I’m learning to take myself with just a pinch
of seriousness, though my gender fits comfier when I don’t.
This isn’t a joke. I love baseball. I love how most everyone
on the team gets to do most anything, how they move
in a circle, slow, flowing. Then a crack of a miracle: home
organ taken seriously. Well, just a pinch of seriousness.
I don’t mean to be solemn. I’m actually holding things
more lightly than before. But not loose – tight and light –
solo homer in the bottom of the 9th when I’m down 7.
Not saying it’s gonna turn everything around, but
better than no turn. I turn 30 and learn maybe I do like parties,
fun and games. I’m slow but I’ll answer. Call me in a pinch,
hitter. I’ll circle. I’ll get around to most anything.

Lou Turner is a writer and musician in Nashville, TN, where she plays music (Lou Turner, Styrofoam Winos) and teaches creative writing at The Porch. She holds an MFA in poetry from Randolph College and is the author of the chapbook Shape Note Singing (2021, Vegetarian Alcoholic Press). Turner founded and edits Quarter Notes, a literary magazine with a musical ear.

Elliot Lin is a college student who spends their free time musing about sports and how they shape or reflect identity. You can find their other baseball-related illustrations here, on Twitter, Tumblr, and Instagram.

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