ALTER WINE
Lay me on the grass like a burnt sacrifice
Take off my clothes, one at a time, like you are opening the holy book
Read the verses of my body until you master all chapters
Taste the dishes my skin has to offer
Make me your last supper
Drink from my river of life

Let me be your alter wine

Make a perfect sign of the cross on my body
Before you take my holy communion

Welcome to my ecclesia!

Now sing for me hosanna
Until we reach the highest…

___________

Harriet Anena is the author of acclaimed poetry collection, A Nation in Labour. The above poem is taken from her forthcoming collection.