ecdysis

We are separate. Between stands a thin withered screen
Alice's mirror, though in that glass lie a thousand oceans
Now, you think the image above the mantel is me
But you're mistaken
As you stare into the eyes of what you want to see

I am not so distant as to have deserted you
Though you will berate me for my cruel heart
Mariner will I play and bless
From my cold lofty perch behind bars

Because I have left a film-cracked membrane behind
When you used to beat me til my heart bled
When you bound me so I could not shed

You will not penetrate our Chinese silk screen.


written 120306