The Veteran

Scribbled on the edge of my pain
are battles of a youth I claim
to be found of love, dimmed
flowed with loss and Autumn wind

This life matter, stained in a tear,
soared by time and mournful shame
has wisdom's laugh, a keener ear
a silky mind, to fail or win

I've sought for joy, for passion and peace
but I am old, I hold no ease
I'm a stone of desire, released
Of written death, this veteran is