Today, O columns!

O small door, I've suffocated under your low arch and suffered in the chamber beyond. I've hidden my broken parts under the rugs even while friendly neighbors stood on the mat with soothing soups. Don't look at me, I've said. I'm hideous, I've said. A dank, burrowing creature.

Even last night I twitched from one side to the other, burning against an infection of tristesse. Manic tunes taunted me, and the press of each new hour closer to daylight. In the end, the clock was stopped. Happy chance, I had an opportunity of sunshine and happiness. I chose oblivion.

* * *

But today, O columns! You stretch beyond visibility, beyond mountain and cloud! I wrap my arms around you each, press my forehead to your cool stone, stand between you with my arms wide and feel your current flow from hand to hand. My friends in their several caravans are winding their way through the valleys to your festivity!