Bodies Aflame* Poem by Terence George Craddock (Spectral Images and Images Of Light)

Willows bowed in assent
paying deep tribute
disturbed by vagrant breezes
which stirred their leaves.
Esteemed elders muttered
in protest at this invasion,
which appallingly profaned
solemn act of their respect.

Unaware these very breezes
had searched journeyed far
among innumerable trees
in order to give full measure,
when breezes give, of their
accumulated tribute at leisure.

Among lush greenery of rain forest
dwell I in barren dust. For nowhere
here is found kindred spirit
to address my searching soul.
Cowed I be when grope I blindly
through pain stinging particles
hurled forth of fury blizzard sand.


Love which I seek
may chance be found
at travels peril
lodged, in less arid land.

Love’s mark doth
she set her standard highest
to honoured be above all else
for those who give in like degree.

Love’s mark doth
she set her standard spiraling
for undaunted faith
in soulless heartless quest.


Worthy sacrifice
to altars eternally sacred.
Not on rich nor on poor lightly
doth she bestow such costly blessing.

But on servants serving
a lifetime’s service
tending sacred fires
with commitment of bodies’ need.


Copyright © Terence George Craddock