young merlin

i tell them, "come, children, gather to me!
my arms are small and young, but they are strong:
their thin shadows cover and protect you all.
hail, sweet stranger, i welcome you in!
my driftwood fire is weak and dull, but warm:
its tired light will kiss your sun-baked cheeks
and dry the rainwater gathered in your coat.
see now, my raindrops, fall upon me!
my bucket-joy awaits you. overwhelm
the Earth! ride upon the wind singing songs
of clouds, who live to release in strength, grace
and death--come, children, gather unto me,"
i say. we shall huddle to the dawn.

mar '10
feb '10