Beside the pool and sleep’s dark well
The night-grey mare looks tame and calm
So well behaved, with style and charm,
Rolls one wild eye to cast a spell.
Draw up the water, drink it deep,
Ignore the promise of the horse!
Absorb oblivion, trust the source,
This safe and liquid form of sleep.
For if you dare to mount and ride
Then snatching at the reins of day
She’ll drag you off and woe betide
Through images of pain and play
To tear your heart from the inside
Charge at the night, and ride away.
25th January 2023
