Dear survivor (ghazal)

What was the whispered word that crazed you?

Whose was the promise-tipped arrow that grazed you?

Carpets of birdsong. Lifetime of silence.

When was the last time pain amazed you?

Now in the unnumbered hours, tell me

Why all the hotheaded prophets praised you.

Safe in our cave of blankets and cushions

Speak: which was the final kindness that dazed you?

Your dog. Your guitar. Bitter whiskey. Old stories.

Where are the wounded wolves who raised you?