on first seeing the Taj Mahal
icy full moon
frigid morning
green parrots huddling
inside frozen ancient archways
patient for
a hint of sunlight
then purposefully
emerging
in all its glory
through rings of prism dew rising
the ultimate structure of centuries
one man’s memorial
one woman’s vision for eternal love
for all those who may pass by
this monument
who may pause to wonder
if only for a dying moment
recognize love eternal
a final resting place
this temple of life
this immaculate phosphorescent marble structure of hope
this golden dream realized
22 years without rest
across frozen snowy winds
blowing down from Rajasthan
swirling wet kisses from Mumtaz
this dream realized
Shahjahan’s white hair
22 years without light
until at last his masterpiece of love
embraces the world
Agra
12/26/04