Cacti and Porcupines
“fixing emblazoned zones and fiery poles” ~ Wallace Stevens in
“The Idea of Order at Key West”
If I composed in music, I would fix
Its tones like amber set on fire and launch
The rhythms into space. The notes would mix
With flames at poles. Tourniquets could not staunch
The bleeding of its beauty or its might.
Those measures in their loveliness above
The ice would banish darkness and its night.
But I am writing poetry of love
And death. There are no melodies. No sweep
Of orchestras in conflagration set
The night time skies with violins or steep
Chords. None prepares for trumpet’s brass regret.
..Men write in stanzas, words, and lines
….Of thought. Men write emotions with spines.
