Wolf packs are barred entrance to this bush;
a change of skin must precede the eating
of fire. With this I am not boasting
of particular talents or hush-
ed-up wonders, semi-flawless flattery:
a to-do list, utter loneliness, bristle
cigarette lighter flint, a pistol,
a gadget almost out of battery
for my exclusive use. Willingness
suffices us - and light, hopefully bright,
although not outshining blind surrender
willl you accept? understand? take it in?
pierce the dark nerve of this denseness
but only if you’re able to hold tight
and wholly contain me while I fall asunder.