After Reading John Donne Poem by M.J. McGuire

Build me, oh Craftsman, a vessel frail,
Meeker that the ocean's sway.
Carve me a sea-worthless ship to sail
Across this restless bay.

Meet all my needs through a gray swollen sea.
Hear all my prayers through a hideous hail.
Send forth an omen to comfort me.
Set my fated course a sail.

Ravage me on rugged rocks.
Pour me out with the sea.
Count all my bones and dry up my strength,
But, be not far from me…

That I might rise from the depths of this tomb,
From the gloom of this darkened den.
Burst down the walls of my catacomb
And fly me away...born again!

(1990)