from the cradle she'd trudged this far
winter snows are bluest
at dusk, but still
there are no notes
worth the ink
and confessions without firecrackers
do not even warrant a whistle
stoned with holy fury
the adulteress is fearless
for Mephistopheles is bored
by those who slip religion
into conversation
just before
the coffin
closes
In Shay’s word garden this week we have a choice lexicon from Laura Nyro
PoetryPix 
Oh yes, conversions on the deathbed or in the jailhouse are deeply dull. So glad you found the word list!
not dull except for Mephistopheles – but at least the word list was not boring
Well-crafted and full of expressive images that convey much more than they state. I especially like ‘winter snows are bluest at dusk…” and of course, the final lines.
thank you – this was a pleasurable challenge, reformulating some of Nyro’s words into different imagery
Hooked my imagination right off the bat and could see a medieval tapestry with these images, and in the foreground bored Mephistopheles waiting for the clerics to disappear before the coffin closes. Enjoyed this very much, Laura, including the understated humor.
Pax,
Dora
love the images you saw here Dora ❤
This is a captivating poem Laura! It is full with wonderful images light and dark. I love it!
such lovely feedback – thank you Carrie
Oh, yes. This is great. I love “winter snows are bluest / at dusk, but still” that is perfect. The last stanza is fantastically interesting. Wow.
it was your poem encouraged me to join in so double thanks
Love, love your take on Mephistopheles! Bored before the coffin closes …. Yep.
many thanks Helen
Laura — May the joy of the season fill your heart here at the closing if the year 2021, and may peace abide in 2022. This is a most difficult time for our planet earth, and a time of turmoil for its peoples. May 2022 begin the way back! ✌🏼❤️🌎
much appreciation for your good wishes Rob – we shall overcome with a little self- adjudication and some strength from the source of all creation