Poverty and love (a duet)
Poverty and love must suit me well
(but then I never knew much else.)
Lonely to a fault I dare not mention hope
(or pay too much attention to its markers.)
I am this paper dragon, floating like a leaf,
(drawn to places where small death must gather.)
I’ve known these loves more intimate than death,
(carrying the other like a tune I can’t recall.)
My heart remains an attic with one closed and dusty window
(and no-one looking in or out.)
I will remain in winter’s shadow,
(ringing festive leper bells.)
Poverty and love have served me well
(but then I never knew much else.)