Oracles

ASSUMPTA CANIDIA Written in Mexico City WATERS that weep upon the barren shore Where some lone mystery of man abides ; As if the wailing of forsaken brides, Rapt from the kiss of love for evermore, Impressed its memory on the desolate Sounds at its edge ; on such a strand of tears I linger through the long forgetful years, My sin for mother, and my woe for mate. I am a soul lost utterly—forbear ! I am unworthy both of tear and prayer. The mystic slumber of my sense forlorn Stirs only now and then ; some deeper pang Reminds despair there is a sharper fang, Reminds my night of a tempestuous morn. For I am lost and lonely : in the skies I see no hope of any sun or star ; On earth there blooms no rose, no nenuphar ; No cross is set for hope of sacrifice. I cannot sleep, I cannot wake ; and death Passes me by with his desirèd breath. 92