I blurred at once the map of humdrum
by splashing colours like a potion;
I showed upon the dish of jelly
the slanted cheekbones of the ocean.
Upon the scales of metal fish
I read the new lips' attitude.
So could you now
Perform
A nocturne
Just playing on a drainpipe flute?..

***
At once I smeared all routine
by spilling paint in my place;
I took a plate of gelatin
and formed an ocean’s jagged face.
I picked the summons of fresh youth
off rusty glint of fish scale tin.
So could you
take
a drainpipe flute
and play a nocturne on a whim?..