Kom Ombo

I paused, look
through avenue
shaft, feel
columns’ heft,
see prayerful
designs to two gods
standing on plateau
the temple shafts
into sky
they disappear
I am alone
as night quickens
their cries grow faint
I make my vows
the gods are on my side
it is good to be alive
the temple comes
to brilliant life
in yellows and gold
the crocodile god
shares his house with
the senior falcon
there is drumming
and smoke
I sense I can return
all is calmed

Abu Simbel

Ramses’ huge features
and knees preside
over desert
a breath escapes
in the holy of holies
men bring donkeys
to the river
you battle the price
of a cab
orange blends the sky
Cairo is wonderful
decadent
I’ll be back
to see into those rooms
drink coffee
but the temple sits
in intense heat
the priest brings
an animal sacrifice
Amon is happy
his face is struck
with light
you can call that
African, but Ramses
wouldn’t agree