Words for the Chisel (collection)/Dissonance Then Silence

by Genevieve Taggard

Dissonance Then Silence

Both being cowards, and pulses ice,Knowing each the other's paradise;

Wanton with anguish and wry bliss—Bruised the too great love with a death's kiss;

As eyes closed cruel-blind, and ecstasyWeeping and ceasing to weep, went free

To come again in circles, lessening.But widening the span of ancient pain:

There being pain for tasting paradise.And pain for lack of it; pain twice;

And the last pain: to see the flying moon,To be immobile and to make no moan.