Raving ~ Poem by Josh Alfred

If I were to wonder right
Would I have much insight?
If I were to gather stars
Upon my pupil, in membrane bars
Would I have the greatest sight?
If I were to look and gaze
And stand still, awed and amazed
Would I still be consumed by night?

If I were to balance a grain of sand
Upon the tip of my finger's hand
And feel gentle wind upon my face
Would I know Nature's grace
Just as it is, whilst being a Man?
If I I were to summon all power within
Would I commit those deemed sins,
Or make the most of a promised land?

If I were to measure all my mind
What limitations would I find?
Of this I know, I know for sure,
The knowing and imagining kill the bore,
And with it mix all sound and sign.
If I were to speak no more
And write for no one lore
Would my imaginings fit to rhyme?

If I were to die the death
And breath the last of my breath,
Could I say that I tried
Instead find a place where darkness hides?
Mind says, 'give me peace, give me rest! '
If I weren't exhausted now,
I'd write forever on what and how
And make only works that were the best.

Sometime off' in autumn or spring
I hear the chorus of angels sing
If I were still madder than this
I'd hope it be for imagined bliss
For imagining is wild like eagle's wings
Or scattered about like those tiny things,
Lifting or descending still and nigh
Down and below, or up and high.