In search of my shadow
in the torrent of kings
I wade through the current
of all other things

Alone treading water
my essence bemired  
This river a dungeon
of banished desire

I reach out to grab it
it motions away
To outline my image
while swirling at bay

And not till I’m sinking
does it buoy my form
To chase was my folly
—now rescued reborn

(Dreamsleep: May, 2023)