Without Pride (Den or Mate) -3/31/05

You’re some guy’s grave, just waiting for a spade
Or heart, some Jack or King.  I’ve heard it’s true
These sorry boys will need, once they’ve been played,
A triple-bypass to get over you.

You are an ivy dart in Baldur’s heart
The world itself is weeping for his death
But in this mourning you will not take part
You will not give a tear to give him breath.

I see the signs, you’re holding on to life
The way a maid will grip a shriveled rose
Tries to imagine fields around her rife
With beauties such as once she read in prose.

Just let me ask, before I far digress,
Why does your smile recall a lioness?