A Memory of the Players in a Mirror at Midnight

James Joyce

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They mouth love's language. Gnash
The thirteen teeth
Your lean jaws grin with. Lash
Your itch and quailing, nude greed of the flesh.
Love's breath in you is stale, worded or sung,
As sour as cat's breath,
Harsh of tongue.

This grey that stares
Lies not, stark skin and bone.
Leave greasy lips their kissing. None
Will choose her what you see to mouth upon.
Dire hunger holds his hour.
Pluck forth your heart, saltblood, a fruit of tears.
Pluck and devour!

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Comments1
  • elbabuie7891987

    Wow, this poem is so raw and intense! 😳 It really captures a sort of darker side to love and desire, doesn't it? I wonder what exactly is the message the poet is trying to convey with these striking images, like the "fruit of tears." Do you guys think they're criticizing a specific aspect of human relationships? 🤔 Let me know what you think! 💭