This is the way
We must dream
As we capture
That glittering moonlight
Still mirroring hope
Long defeated
In a sheer
And elegant glass –

Tinted by veils
Of appearance,

Much deeper than blue
Should remain,

Obscuring such flames
At its center
Where the sun’s lost rays
Still reflect

Every moment once spent
Taking breathers
Rather than raced
Toward indifference

As achievement drips
Along edges
While the wick does burn
Ever bright,

Melting like sins
Despite knowing
This candle wastes
Without purpose
For another good day
We’ve been tested
Cooking more meals
We can’t taste.

I’m enduring fate
Seeking pleasures
Because faith means truth
Never questioned

When picking on fruit
Missing labor
Or stealing new words
From God’s tongue

Off the lap of stars
Doing favors,

Though staring right back
If we focus

Among gazes vast
Almost meaningless
Through their torches
Guiding at night

Every universe
Now too infrequent,

Like bad movies
Plotted but honest –

So beautifully shot
Behind lenses
Only space itself
Can provide.

• J. Pigno