Procession
Emily Berry


Once I had a day mother

Now I have a night mother

Mourners no longer murmuring

In the late afternoon

                              *

They say we are doomed to repeat ourselves

So I threw away my fate

The sun went in behind a cloud and all the daffodils darkened

                              *

Relics of ancient rituals

A house by the sea with no view of the sea

No lamps burning at this hour

                              *

Every day the loss of light

The new year comes in, carrying all my language

I do not know if it is bringing or taking away

                              *

Last time, last time...

I might feel infinitely wise as though it must show from a
    certain angle

When I saw the sea after many months it was such a meeting

Numerous dreams about rain, flooding, and bathing

                              *

Once I saw my mother rowing

At night across water

I called to her and she looked back

Smiling beautifully