He slips through the dusty streets

delaying his departure from sorrow.

What wisdom is

this wisdom?

The Sorceress’s warm breath at his ear

softly offers her seductive charms.

What wisdom is

this wisdom?

The priest offers redemptive prayers

in patterns to protect him.

What wisdom is

this wisdom?

At both the chancery and brothel doors

he laughs like a nascent breeze.

Which wisdom is

his wisdom?

(May 9, 2022)