Ille Terra Lamentum
The consummate scent of Earth's due decay
Subdues gently the fervor of Death's perennial
Parade, whose incumbent silences the withering leaves
Do so barely correct, by singing tremulous or crying to the choral winds.
But, as with an inspirited indifference, that incensed breeze yet swept
The consummate scent of Earth s due decay
Far from that secret tome whence mortal moments may,
As with grave strength from deepest wells of regret,
Be still distilled into that which, -despite bare Oblivion's
effortless sway-
Thus vivifies such frailty as whereby
The consummate scent of Earth's due decay
Has ever it's beauty in sanctity kept.
And does Death then yet impress a violence but so fair,
As with the mellowing maple leaf, or the ripening pear?
And who would prevent them that Death should repay?
Hence, the consummate scent of Earth's due decay.
Copyright © Theodore Hoxie | Year Posted 2023
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