The Temple Prostitute

THE TEMPLE PROSTITUTE The God came to me in the guise of a stranger His gold body scent was of great sublimity His arms were marble pillars, and his embrace Melted the whole world on my belly. He tuned me to the refinement of my own nature - Pitched me so exquisitely I fell from heaven - Totally vanquished, till I remembered All there was of paradise, and the number seven. He has the unfolding of centuries since To worship me as a goddess divine, But they couldn’t build churches fast enough To deny our union in the votive shrine. The salt of humble pilgrims for my wantonness I, who had everything but blessedness. (c) Rosemarie Rowley From IN MEMORY OF HER (2008)