VISIONS BEFORE SLUMBER

hypnagogically dreaming off the last colors seen
shapes change into figurines and I don't know what it means
or what they will be, come, tell, O Rosabella Thumbalina
Scarlet Maybelline

why the masque around the eyes?
of strange shape and size
it's the night's light seeping
through your pale lids

sudden and overwhelming
this nervous reality

. . . . . . . Dream? Is it a dream?
. . . . . . . What difference does it make or mean,
. . . . . . . If it's only a dream? It is the dream which we are,

sudden and overwhelming
this nervous reality.

tribute to Delmore Schwartz,
In Dreams Begin Responsibilities