I invoke the air in rage,
am like a cancer in a cage—
only myself to burn, to burn;
mere glass and sun on an empty stage.
Pick and spade, curse and yearn—
agatefulls are struck and turned,
one by one and year by year,
until the hollow has been earned.
Now the reckoning is near,
now the starlings rise in fear;
a shadow sweeps across the page
and I was music, talking here.
Time is short, so I’ll be direct: FIRST THINGS needs you. And we need you by December 31 at 11:59 p.m., when the clock will strike zero. Give now at supportfirstthings.com.
First Things does not hesitate to call out what is bad. Today, there is much to call out. Yet our editors, authors, and readers like you share a greater purpose. And we are guided by a deeper, more enduring hope.
Your gift of $50, $100, or even $250 or more will bring this message of hope to many more people in the new year.
Make your gift now at supportfirstthings.com.
First Things needs you. I’m confident you’ll answer the call.
