For Many A Year Poem by Oliver .........

For many a year, lonely I leaned
Against this pillar, my soul!

Solitude, solace and strength
I wrenched from its mass and gravity
Under the time- washed
Roof of my mind's shelter

I did eat and drink
Beside those that drove
Me to this brink of an abyss!
Strangely they could see
Me only, and nothing else!

My garment and shelter I haven't changed
So far; so no stars glittered or,
deigned to defend me.

With this pillar, I am alone,
When they ring bells
And hymn in the churches,
With this pillar I am, I am!