Consumption speaks
In a rasping voice
Coughing blood
No longer choice
The smell of iron
From vessels deep
Stabbing pain
Lungs to cheek.
White linen soaked
In blood and paint
A half finished work
On easel waits
For another day
If strength returns
Alcohol and pipe
Tabacco burns.
Garrets eye
Lone window from
Comes the light
Of rising sun
In visions dream
Years they roll
Like bloodied spittle
From mouth to bowl.