Two Powers

Two Powers

Love makes a tenant of the stars descend
to mingle with the grime, while Lust feigns vows,
and Heaven and Hell become the here and now,
depending on the master we befriend.

Not a coin toss, this choice; both blend
their flavors in life's stew, both disavow
indifference. We choose, uphold the plow
to till joy's vineyard or sour ends.

Love masquerades as Hell, yet sings of Paradise.
Lust dons angel's robes, breathes easy lies,
and slides toward Hell, a bride too soon bedecked.

If Love is life's own spark, a swift device
to elevate the soul, Lust's thick alibis
serve only Death—each Power's own architect.