WHO TEARS THE SERPENT FROM THE FLESH
Reading edition
ITS evil head that gnaws the breast Is beautiful and bright, Emblazoned with a jeweled crest, Red plume of light. The body of its reptile grace, Glitter of gold and green, Winds rippling in fastidious chase Of heart’s meat clean. Who tears the serpent from the flesh To stamp a bloody seal, And laughs, inflicting gash on gash With his iron heel, Will thirst to fill in spirit’s drought The vacant well of pain, And stoop to kiss the serpent’s mouth, And kiss in vain.