each from each

and curled the petals

back from the stalk

and under it in crisp rows;

under at an unfaltering pace,

under till the rinds break,

back till each bent leaf

is parted from its stalk;

under at a grave pace,

under till the leaves

are bent back

till they drop upon earth,

back till they are all broken.

O night,

you take the petals

of the roses in your hand,

but leave the stark core

of the rose

to perish on the branch.

[36]

 Prev. P 49/64 next