Malahide

Beacon and fortress
this mist-steeped, green-filled 
valley's round tower
cone-crowned stone spire 
welcomed pilgrim strangers
repelled neighbor invaders.

Now to faithful and
angry hearts together 
says the tower, Surrender.
Let your walls fall.
Let these stones be what is ancient.
Your hard tears and the 
granite in your throat
are my fastening mortar.

Jody Blouch
July 2001