Karen Knight: ‘Six Reasons’ (for Axl)

KAREN KNIGHT

Six Reasons
(for Axl)

He’s the heart
of a Neruda ode
when he bows
to new words.

He’s the conqueror
of a chaise longue
climbing as if gaining
ground on heaven.

He’s king of all wild things
following the hounds over
a realm of cushions.

His face, when sleeping,
is a laser etched crystal.

He’s a deep dream diver
steeped in consolatory kisses.

He’s the sun that dances
the day out with
Moby’s Beautiful;

and his pet canary sings
from its powder coated
cage.

Karen Knight (2010)