Before Solstice

by Diane di Prima

the mystery in the Brocade
the jewels upon the Tree
wild snatches of Song on the wind
from a mouth Inhuman

how could I turn & turn from these
how did I dare — thinking to
find some other Greatness
                    wd turn the air
all whiteness,            white fire &
          crystal     &    cold stars

sucking blood      leaving Ichor
                                white at the heart