A Modern Psalm

The mouse nudges the door as it enters;
The bright line wavers:
Light resumes its attack.

Sequestered, it grows intense,
Presses the door, threatens
To explode its frame.

The slovenly dog
Bangs the door open,
Slaps it with its tail.

Light breaks down
Into the common, faithful things:
A floor, a wall, a ceiling

Only the painting hold its own
Special light
Subsists within its frame.

"O little spark,
"Separate by glass

"From larger compartments
"Of combustible experience:

"Take this candle in the dark
"And open your mind."

© Dan Goorevitch, 1996