From “Coy” (xxi)
And if the sun will nor stand still. And
if a bird will alwaies prey. And if the fire
will to make ashes. And if rubies be alwaies
in skin. And if a tear will alwaies to flood.
Then which for I, now. And which for him.
No, which for I. I be willing, at last, to
sound my soul – show and be transpires!
This prey still be prey yet make. And hear.
And think of him and nor of him. And be
of pleasures. And praise. And run on and on
till state be winged. And tear through the
iron gates of him to find an I. And life in this
day. And life in song. And pass, ecchoing.
From That Broke into Shining Crystals (Faber and Faber, Ltd., 2025) by Richard Scott. Copyright © 2025 by Richard Scott. Used with the permission of the publisher.