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The Knave Of Bells

chief of disguise
collector of masks 
the King wears his 
as a helmet to scare
off enemies

the fool with false nose 
the jester in chains
remains in oubliette
singing in his screams 
impossible to forget

the old men who come 
from the sea and steam
in cold of Poseidon spray 
salt and fish from waves

likely alone are the women 
and wives of sailors 
so long as they have not 
turned to traitors, 
bakers or smiths

the loves who are steadfast 
never safe from a day 
when their hearts do not return 
fading to old maids all 
in the name of heartbreak

the Queen is tired of 
the Knave of Bells
his complaints so 
needless and vain, 
checking his hair in the mirror

she is exhausted 
left to remain as consort 
to the pain in her heart 
for the King is away 
not likely to return.

Copyright © Lucas James

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Book: Reflection on the Important Things