Shadowland

Sarah Slean
"There is no enemy
There is nothing lacking
You are perfect, swinging all ways and directions.
You are Too Much and Too Little's child."
I have been to the shadowland
I heard the empty call
Of hatred, anorexia
Misery and alcohol
By their hearths I warmed myself
To escape from the winter years
Until I saw in the window
Myself crying fire-coloured tears
Love, the only alchemy
Love, the killer of despair
Love, the patient samurai
Love, the armour angels wear
Love
"You arrive and depart simultaneously.
Your body is all things manifested, on its way to death,
On its way to birth.
The rhythm is endless."
They turned away the prophet
Because she was young and full of longing
Instead they turned to the magistrate
Who was busy yawning
And they try to sell me holy books
But I can see their eyes are wild
I caught them pouring shame and fear
Into the perfect vessel of a child
But love's the only alchemy
Love, the killer of despair
Love, the true nobility
Love, the armour angels wear
Love
Love will make your eyes clear
"You have destiny's sword."
The order of the universe
"With it you can cut the curtain of time down the middle,
The crease of every closed eyelid."
The only reason we are here
"Make waves in their sadness so that they can wake.
Wield your powers effortlessly.
All love sings your name.
All life knows you.
Everywhere is home."