Stop Swimming

Six fifteen, I lie awake –

There's a whirlwind in my head

I feel that there can be no doubt

That – really – God is dead

Half past ten and time stands still –

“Have mercy – on me – if you can –“

My lips suppress a sneer about

Someone's – so-called masterplan

Ten to one, a full canteen –

Thoughts of incarnation –

A power strong enough to want

To lead these faces – to salvation –

It's four, I can't withhold a curse –

As I hear cathedral bells –

I'm scowling at the leaden clouds

That seem to rain on no one else

Midnight and the night's too bright –

There is no other way I see –

I clasp my hands and whisper words

That he may give you back to me