Dark Goddess.

You are cold as the brief touch
of stones against my thigh.
Ancient granite. Mottled marble.

How is it to love
the darkness?

Red heads of pomegranates
swing on the tree, their seeds
blood on my hands. I pile them
in pyramids before you.

Your hood thrown back. Skin
stretched tight on your face,
I see your eye sockets, the roots
of your teeth.

Your imperious love
could shatter me.

You roam the fields of battle
where the raven croaks your name.
Carves it in the jelly
of an eye. You weep.
Tear your hair. Wander
like a madwoman
drinking blood. Skulls
wrapped around your waist.
Your scythe ending the gurgles of pain.

Mercy and terror
in the same breath.

by M. B.

copyright 1999