Aubade 6

There is nothing to be gained.

Henry harboring a pallor.

In his derelict form,

he finds his position at the bar,

where he remains rooted

until the ringing of the bell.

Publicans and tavern-keepers,

gather your mugs and spirits accordingly.

Your wife is without you,

your child is without you.

Henry approaches the shoreline

with a coin in his mouth.

It is the fourth of July.

I join the others

on the promenade

to watch as the fireworks

disturb the serenity

of the Stygian sky.