Heavier than the weight
of the world entire
beyond the scope
of philosophy
even religion
further than
the most sophisticated algebra
the loftiest sentences
of poetry included--et cetera
is the heart's
hidden and inarticulable
sorrow and pain
by far--

youth
whose dream
reaches the furthest star
crashes in dust
leaves a timeless scar

love
in its matchless splendour
grows weary and cold
life through the meandering
of years its sad stories retold

hopes
they betray
however bold

beauty
rushes into springtime
her glories
to unfold
shuts her eyes
as the darkness of night
too soon does unfold

finally
age is awash
with wrinkles
ruins and wrecks
of all sizes and shapes
its eyes stoically behold

living
is the heaviest load
life's face is tragedy-marked
grim, dismal and pale
what else could
it unfold?