By the Book
 
 
The pages turn
more quickly now
words jumble
meaning tumbles
past sense
lifelight gutters as
memory mutters
with reluctant regret
 
The Parts are all cast
Players' lines all known
my future defined
by a certain past
Nothing new will
surprise tomorrow as
my story unwinds
and first gives way to last
 
Yet passion rebels
new life delights
with the thrill of now
an eternal present
dispels the never of forever
setting spirit free
Hamlet has his answer
to be to be to be