Ashes Poetry

To The Good People at Gates Four and Five

Not the hardest of tasks, perhaps, at first sight
to guide the throng to their appointed places,
scrutineers of belonging and belongings
of pilgrims who close soon their journeys.

An order of friars, orange habits,
forbidden by vows and observance
(with promise of sustenence)
to enjoin and enjoy the pilgrimmage.
Theirs is not the way, mere waymarkers

To control forbidden pleasures,
the softest censure of sinners,
most of all those who sin for sinning’s sake,
those who trouble make.

This they do with humour, charm and delight,
pleasure and pride in their task,
not its effects or power.

Ushers, sextons, beadles and wardens
of a later-day church worthy of praise.
Saint Simon de Hughe penned God created the game;
If Saint Peter takes five from the heavenly gates
to watch play, he knows who to call.