Darling,

I’ve left the stove on for you
The milk has curdled and lumped
The walls torn of their bark
The shower running hot

I’ve given all the photos up
To flame in warm embrace
I’ve brimmed the socks with holes for you,
I’ve smithered every plate

I’ve sprayed the garden poisonous
I’ve festered root & vein
I’ve grown a weed in every pith
And severed every end

For you, my love
I’ve scorched the house
And this I’d do again
For you, my love
I would commit
Each feared unearthly sin

I am the soldier
Steadfast, held
Against all element
For you I’d burn
And fall to sword
Infatuate in death

– c