Lords of the Ring

by Ari Berk

"Three Rings for the Elven-kings"

In memory

the Land is always seen at twilight

only the moment of recognition

and the longing to rekindle

what has been forgotten

It begins with loss

and the desire to create

to fill a void

with objects beautiful

but artificial

So we are lulled

by the half-light

of our handiwork

and forget again.

"Seven for the Dwarf-lords"

It is easy to hide

abandon the changeable world

mine the interiors

forging songs about our clever toys

Here are jewels shining

break them free from bedrock

take them

though their light is distraction

and they are heavy in your hands

The sun once held your face like a child

will you forsake it?

"Nine for Mortal Men"

You could turn your back to the forest

embrace the metropolis

find comfort in the task

join the team

Here are captains of industry

earth-blind thieves

and helpers of the hostile take-over

No solace in service

No rest for the wicked

Corporate accountants

making sure we are in the black.

"One for the Dark Lord"

There is one thing we each bear

bright and intoxicating

molded without memory

Fashioned without foresight

You are not responsible

Forget the past

Be invisible to the Land

that you cannot control

There is only the moment

Hold fast the machine.