Jon Nakapalau

the orphan of mercy asks pierrot for alms

as redemptive gaze is averted

by entourage of princes
as they end tour of rage

under soaking purple flags
that rain testament to

that book now shut
upon so many days still to come

in sun that full circle falls
thunderous march to next oration

where bust of pericles
cries verdigris tears

did you know friend pierrot
not one prince noticed me in this ravine

filling with their flags clotting
coagulated in aggregation

only you have shed a tear
and offered me a black rose

as they march by
with ozymandian stride

to their victory banquet
halls filled with dogs

who will sleep with full stomachs soon.