In The Dock

In The Dock written by Walter de la Mare

The Veil and Other Poems (1921)

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PALLID, mis-shapen he stands. The world's grimed thumb,
Now hooked securely in his matted hair,
Has haled him struggling from his poisonous slum
And flung him mute as fish close-netted there.
His bloodless hands entalon that iron rail.
He gloats in beastlike trance. His settling eyes
From staring face to face rove on - and quail.
Justice for carrion pants; and these the flies.
Voice after voice in smooth impartial drone
Erects horrific in his darkening brain
A timber framework, where agape, alone
Bright life will kiss good-bye the check of Cain.
Sudden like wolf he cries; and sweats to see
When howls man's soul, it howls inaudibly.

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