Fool

I lie in bed
gazing out my window
at the pale full moon beyond
the windblown cowering spruce trees
clinging to the last moments of her rule
over night.

In the distance
the bells of St. Agnes
sing in a bright new morning
as the awesome sun rises
out of the dark, sea and mist to reclaim
his domain.

I remember
that I am a courtier
in this high kingdom of light
serving the ancient struggle
as a fool who dances and jingles before
the throne.

Do they not see
through power’s golden haze
this child, this pawn of ages?
for all my effort, my song,
my tricks, my jokes, my love, I am
forever alone.