Behind the Briared Castle Wall

Modern poetry modern verse contemporary poetry contemporary verse modern poem contemporary poem

The garden, good and evil, rises high

Above his haired up thighs.  He stands alone.

His partner whispers almost, husky, sly,

“Before you cover me with mantle known

For secret colors of your will, the red

Of thorns and passion, red of flowers and spikes

Of manliness, of flesh, demanding head,

Of pulsing blue, of selfishness, of strikes

Carnation red inside my soul, at least

Protect me from the eyes of others mean

With jealous meaning.  Save me from the priest

And take me as your captured your king and queen.”

  He thrusts and grunts.  He does not hear husked, “Please.”

    He thrusts and shudders, scarlet through dark pleas.

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