To raze the dead
an architecture
of renewal
first metal
a grate conversing with ground, fire, air
slab tiers of wood
windward
then alternate
different species
stabilize
degrees of heat, time
the small kindling embedded
within the heart
symmetrical
(love, relief)
stable
(remembrance, community)
lifting
lacing oxygen throughout
wrap a white shroud
round the body
place centered, on top
and gently let go
light the base
and wait
for ash and bones
(some will not burn)
sing
read a book
weep
pray
admire the symmetry
the grace
of precious collapse
trunk
trunks
arms
branches
even the buildings of death
used up
given back
