(one of my poems, dated December 11, 1993)

Once Oppressed By Thorns

Thorn in flesh-- remnant of briar patch; it lingers
Like an albatross, piercing the heel.
The swift discouraged in race.
Descent into thorns; the beyond oasis shocked
Yet pondering the fate of this Achilles.
Piercing-- thorn obliquely throttling the seed of the soul.
Blue to read and clear-- Broken sensuality cries. Fire split!
See the dripping from a shattered heart exposed!
Wedge bluntly enters logic's domain usurping the ruler.
Thoughts scatter in flight. Ruins of nest remain!
Fantasy flirts; Addiction seduces; Death delights.
Perfume envelopes playfully.
Comanion with Adam's mask shares wounds.
Perfume's stench evaporates.
Thorns trampled by Vengeance.
Friend guides this Achilles onwards by walking.