Resplendence

Resplendence asks to rise above the ashes

And know that I am still.

Though, when in beat, I knew it not,

Lest glory be unveiled.

I toil and I tarry: how, too, could I be freed?

In service to these shackles, I offer rats and trees.

(They smell not of the Victor, He brings me to my knees.)

Triumph never knew what coldness governed man.

If only rust should question,

I follow as a scam.

Wailing asks the shadows:

Why iniquity?

I spit, I writhe, I jumble:

These things are not of Me.

Dalliance, to the morrow;

Of Pride and Sorrow dance.

In shallow graves lie bindings;

When ashes fall,

I rise.