The Lieutenant

There’s nothing to leave in this shore cave, lightless and soundless. You knew it was me all along. And the shells began to fly. Full of wonder. Whatever there is in these parts, the left and right hemispheres, congealed, coagulated, are to be thrown out. Save the barrel. Talk to somebody. I am trying to replenish the factory with motion. Punch. Like sea sweat. Why did you come back? One lonely night all the rotten mist disappeared. The trees produced golden apples, clothing, and other fine gifts. What were you drinking? Minnesingers filled their mouths with metal and spices. She was right to fashion a man. But what did you talk about? A vessel is coming up. She is trying to come down. Come down. I am trying to think. The moment when there’s nothing to say only recalled when there is overgrowth. The trees are overflowing, withdrawn. Does winter prolong silence? Thank you for the warning.

So Many Things We Never Will Undo

Bob Dylan - Mississippi mp3

("Tell Tale Signs" out 8 October)

click here to listen