You couldn’t comprehend the subtleties of shame
The way Icarus couldn’t comprehend the chemistry
Of wax made wings
The rain fell in tinsel silver sequined streaks
And you knew by now that rain would not wash away remorse
Nor would wine do anything
But fleetingly staunch the wounds of your wickedness
Rising to the back of your throat
Was the pride you used to pry toleration
From the tentacles of your torment
Saying:
If my name isn't dribbling out of mouths
Then the night was done all wrong
I won’t let another’s guilt
Rest like granite on this heart.