I bought communion wine this evening
by mistake; incense-sweet
with a hint of cypress, redolent
of dark comfortless alleyways
and lonely passion.
Crimsons swayed about me
and eternal truth was proffered
in jugs of steel; and I thought
How now shall I sleep?
Cool waters heap behind
faded tracery; and the throat
betrays its long endeavours.
I jump and swing between
the forests and the clouded air.
Forgiveness was never possible
and I have learned all the lessons
of guilt. Tomorrow may be a clear
transparent morning
peopled with savours of joy.
I wish for no other life.
