WANT-NOT

I want no











I want no













I want no

backroom bare-bulb
shirtsleeve dance
with you.









barred windows
shit-stained walls
between me











apology

Yes
I'm afraid
of you
and your aides-de-camp
and canonical law.

Yes
I run from
duty. But



and that
golden-winged
bird.

That bird
will sing someday
to you,
despite your acts,
you mark me!
And when it does


Just you come
with your sword
and your iron ring.

Just you lay them
at my feet.

Just you kiss my hand
and back away
without a sound.