Sympathy

While all of you are bringing milk and bread And stroking me and saying I must rest, Remembrance beats like black wings in my head, And wolfish grief is clawing in my breast.

I know that you are kind, that you mean well, And thanking you so quietly I seem So comforted that you could never tell I'm wondering why it is I do not scream.

Oh crucify me! Nail my hands and feet! Strike in and turn the torture of a knife Heart-deep to loose my blood and take my breath Pain would be good and suffering seem sweet. But keep your love for those who still love life. And do not feed me who am starved to death.