let the mice tinker
with the tall clock
with
the crystal face
and line up the shots
of brandy and crisp air. harried by gnats
and periwinkles.
click your heels
then stroll the damage parlors
of your savage days.
and mark the night
a blessed pandemonium
that features an appearance
of a meaning to it all
with all the candor of an imaginary sage
and a vow of silence.