Applied Neuroscience

for Irina

after Benee’s song ‘Bagels’ (Benemusicc Limited, 2023, https://youtu.be/ARzOSZqY_vo), which was created in collaboration with Youthline NZ, ASB and a team of neuroscientists

When

I listen to Benee 

             hum & speak 

over the silkiest of beats,

my unfocussed mind flows

into a kind of meditative state

and focuses on fondest memories

of your memorable face.

When

I listen to Benee 

             hum & speak 

over the silkiest of beats,

I’m reminded of those two 

wonderful weeks spent with you

savouring salmon bagels on the coast

of Awabakal Country.

When 

I listen to Benee 

             hum & speak 

over the silkiest of beats,

those immersive feelings

of anxiousness & loneliness

swirl so sweetly away

down the drain.