He cursed the clinging bonds of flesh
That took such bitter toll
And held within a cankering mesh
The thing he called his soul.

He deemed life's ardent, earthy kiss —
All beauty — all desire —
Thongs, holding him from other bliss
Heaven on heaven higher.

And death was but a somber dawn
Soon burgeoning into rose.
I mocked him. Now that he is gone
I wonder what he knows.