Ineffable

    by Marianne Lyon

A friend grimaces

says I use your name

in far too many poems

she would like me to explore similes

but we go back 40 years

you have been a sister,

mentor, spiritual advisor

you are the sacred flame

in fiery core of my world

holy current thrumming inexhaustible

when I met you

you changed me

maybe when I’m gone

and famous :0) ... students

will read my poems

notice your name over and over

some will be bored

others won’t quibble

but some may order an autopsy

dissect your mysterious nature

your organs, bones and fluids

marvel at your beautiful immensity

But for now I rename you:

Ethereal

Unspeakable

your opposite twin:

Profane

Expressive

may appear in verse

with your rename

Believe you will always be

my sacred scripture

touchstone

go to ointment

for everything I want

to unveil, heal and understand

You abide in every question

I ask in poems I craft

blessings

treasured ineffable friend

© 2016  Marianne Lyon

Marianne Lyon has been a music teacher for 39 years. After teaching In Hong Kong she returned to the Napa Valley and has been published in various literary magazines and reviews such as Colere, Crone, Trajectory, Earth Daughters, Feile-Festa, and Whirlwind. She spends time each year teaching in Nicaragua. She is a member of the California Writers Club, Healdsburg Literary Guild.