Prayers within prayers
A nested lament snuffing out
Even candles well-meant

An intended sigh
Not by voice
But by eye

We need more time
While we're awake
"I was just holding my breath"
We need more time
Before the wake
"I was just holding my breath"

You taught me two words
For the rich man
Now you're screaming in pain
A feral meditation
A busted Pietà
A permanent lullaby

The hammered chunks of stone fly

We need more time
While we're awake
"I was just holding my breath"
We need more time
Before the wake
"I was just holding my breath"

One day too soon
We'll engrave your name
Proudly to the sun

I've wasted all my prayers
For our souls
And for our land

Unconsoled by any music
I am no longer afraid