String Quartet

I

They flow single file into the sacred nave

first and second violins   long limbed and luminous

sultry cello    in profile   flicks strands of jet

and then viola   a hint of thigh    swish and slit of silk

II

In unison they sit    a vision of vestals   alabaster skin

backlit     the sun’s rays pierce parables stained in glass

shimmering prisms of amethyst and rose

a hush of audience    pews of still anticipation

III

Cello caresses her instrument between the bow of legs

fingers arc the fret    dark eyes flash readiness

first and second violins tucked under chins    nuzzle

the delicate curve of throats    backs    arrow straight

IV

Serene    viola signs    lids and lashes softly flutter

free sensuous notes to hover pianissimo   in incense haze

hypnotic harmonies ascend the vaulted ceilings

for a moment    buttress heaven    then dissolve in stone