7 DECEMBER 1934, Page 13

Only the Word

ONLY the word—a cache of coins

Dug up from roots and mud,

Once minted by the refluent blood That fed the brain and pliant loins.

Organs that felt fatigue and thirst And skull and pelvis are dispersed

But from whitish roots and earthy black

Oblivion's mortgage is paid back, Fortune's inherited as fame.

Though earth is heavy and clay is damp

Truth's compound interest brings increase, The silver shines, and every piece

Bears an unmistakable stamp—

Only the face, only the name And emblems of a power unique, f The clear-cut profile, membraned eye,

And the tender lips that spoke and speak

Only the word that cannot die.

WILLIAM PLosiza.