Classic Poem

I

Untouched by the words it sings
The voice retains its pristine quality.
Even when the lyrics signify messy happenings-
Heart-break, perfidy, crass sensuality:
The guiltless voice countenances the emotions,
Rehabilitating them to their original innocence.
What a range of love has she expressed,
Unrivalled in achievement and finesse.
Yet she retains the untainted sacred spirit:
The high-priestess of love remains a virgin.

II
She sings of love profane
The voice is coquettish and throaty
Suggesting rich experience:
It promises fulfillment
Of passions, ecstasies, desires,
The silky intoxication of the self-annihilating embrace,
An invitation to seize the night,
For tomorrow is uncertain and yesterday unknown:
So come into my inviting arms, she sings...
After all, flesh is flesh.

Thus together the two demonstrate in love
The sisterhood of the spirit and flesh.

[From The Serene Flame]