Desperation

I know a dark gypsy
Who lives a sad life
Cutting holes in tents
With her silver knife

I know a sweet singer
Who lost her tempo true
Tapping out her memory
Melding, melting hues

Brass and percussion
Strings and then the bass
War and repercussion
Jacks and then the ace

I know a euchre player
She just makes up the rules
Humming to her matchbook
Testing iron tools

I know a lost angel
A nova of the night
Bursting in the sky
Tangled up in light

Brimstone and thunder
Smoke enshrined in lye
Serpents and surrender
Reverence must die