A snake uncoils along the centuries;

Your name slinking back to Israel.

Whispers left on the pillow

That will unfurl when the

Brownish dawn comes.


I watch the way

The snake lies.

Aware, asleep, a waking dream, waiting

For a scent on the wind.



Your skin is warming next to mine,

Thawing the crystals from your scales.

On the mattress, turning

Through white, livid joy

And coiling your tail around my arm.



Press your bite against my neck.

I will test the sharpness of your teeth.

***** my tongue.

Toxins never tasted so sweet.