Two Poems

THE DOUBLE NATURE OF WHITE

White orchards are the earliest, stunning
the spirit resigned to winter's black; white thorn
sprays first the bare wet branches of the hedge.
We should purely delight. Yet, when one
who gazes on this brilliance turns to look
into a companion's eyes, who gazes on the same,
he sees an evil look, as if of cataract.
This is but reflection of the whitely-gorgeous blossom,
but is uncomfortable, seems a malignity.

What's in white that's so ambiguous? for
the symbol of virginity is, too, unnatural
- like the albino animal, the parasitic plant,
the ghost. And bridal finery is gladly cast aside
for the colours of consummation.
...