Tammuz Laments

I found her soul one day hanging naked on the wall of Death.
Compassion gave me courage. I entered the Labyrinth to save her.

One whom she had loved (as I love her) abandoned her there. And
In utter grief, her soul had died. On her heart, I sprinkled the

Waters of Life. Like a miracle, she awakened, resurrected, rising up
With a smile. For a long time then, her face glowed like a

Sun—radiating contentment and joy. (God has given me a second
Chance, she proclaimed.) She grew still again, a sea becalmed—

Strong enough to be alone. Then, she was gone. I remain here,
Alone in the Netherworld, where she was held captive by her sorrow.

How can I escape this prison-house of her pain? Racing on
With her new life, I’m now alone here, keeping company with

Her anguish. Once alien, I clutch it to my breast and call it “mine.”