A. C. Lambert: “Poem to that great big Boss in the sky”

Poem to that great big Boss in the sky

—for Maurice Manning

I wonder if you’re the moon
who shines his spotlight on me,
Or the moon who squints his eye.
You once were the moon
Behind the cathedral
Who lit up the outdoor café
Where I had wine the color of blood.
And another time you were the moon
On prom night when you illuminated
her hands, and my back.
One night at the park you were the moon
Who sat perfectly on the picnic table
Like a plate stuck between the planks.
But sometimes you’re the moon
Who runs too fast, and I chase you
Through the grass toward home
Where the light is on. Sometimes
you’re the moon who turns his back.