1983 and the poet steps away from lush romantic poetry to splinter into a series of poems over the years known for his identification with Norse god of eloquence and poetry, Bragi. This was his first poem with that label, and may have played a role in the personification of The Amomancer. Note also the first use of his curious descriptor "ruby-blue".
the serpent and the succubus
are baring polished fang for you.
I caught the faintest glimmer
of greylight off their
ruby-blue metal surfaces.
I heard the sheaths' whispering
to me again last night
as I dreamed memory.
slow cuts the quickslitter
that drives home venom angry
and opaque. take this phial
and drink warm wine tonight
when they come for you, as I do.
no less breathes a riddle than I.
no more to dream
the clocks' mockery.
William F. DeVault. all rights reserved.