by Pavel Chichikov
I saw a lost one wandering:
'My guilt is broader than my back
Dense enough to break my bones
And yet I wear it for a pack'
Some are heavy, some are light
But all are strapped to make them tight,
Who can loosen them, remove
Impediments to simple love?
'I know One who can,' said he,
The blackbird in the mulberry –
'I know Him,' the catbird said,
'He is the flesh of simple bread
'Within the grape He is the blood
Which even we have understood –
We chanted cheer up while you ate,
He held for you that crushing weight'
(Click here to follow Pavel's ongoing epic poem “The Shoulder of the Sun.” You may also visit Pavel's website at Grey Owl Press.)