I sigh against

one who is faultless

for my fault

against him.

He does not know.

I cry for you,

man-king of canines,

whose passionate howl

circles inside me,

curling my rib

like a needy lover–

My rib made from yours

before time learned shame

before the needful ache

that enveloped me

when I felt your growl

in the hollow of my neck.

I want you to take this rib,

wipe your one-eyed smile

clean with my marrowed body.

I would sing like Caedmon

to be caught between your teeth.

Do you hear me howling too,

over the many mewling puppies

nipping at your heels?

You don’t send them away.

You don’t let me enter

the dark chambers of your heart

where I long to be.

You bite the hand that feeds you,

lap puddles of beer

from marbled floors.

Let my learning hand

understand what you whine for–

I will give it.

I will lick your wounds.

just say the word.

I will come.