A Vernacular of the Numinous is inspired by an invitation to participate in Unpoetry at Seattle's Frye Art Museum in response to a particular exhibition—Hugh Hayden: American Vernacular. First, Hugh Hayden’s personal queering of ordinary objects and everyday settings launched me into myriad remembered scenes of pride parades. But then, I found myself enthralled in that corner with the bristling church pews facing a manic, electrified American flag. Ultimately, Hugh Hayden: American Vernacular led me into deep contemplation of “vernacular” in my own life and work, giving way to A Vernacular of the Numinous, a meditation on the extraordinary ordinary.