After the Darkness

Such radiance of gold! The golden deer of desire,
Dawn's crimson cascade, bright vessels ablaze with fire,
If longings grow weary, troubled, fearful, fleeing in fright,
Hidden behind dark clouds. I know that flowing river's light
Will yield grain, yield song, the blessed gentle yearning's
Birds, touched by nectar merging blooms with green's returning.
Heart restless and torn, the ugly, untimely death's snare,
Shadow upon shadow, love and affection's cruel despair,
The headless ghost's dance, yet still light, moments, tender smile,
Tenderness, living touch, solace-soft honey flute's while,
Sleep sleep of peace! Behind night's black curtain drawn,
Tomorrow's promise—bright, unborn tidings of dawn.