On The Dustman or The Lovers by Sir Stanley Spencer

*** 

Dustman’s wife lifts

his small body; a priest celebrating the host.

Cottered cat sleeps.

*

Heaven’s love transfigures the scene;

corduroy breeches become angel’s

cloth. One warm eye blinks open.

*

Neighbours congregate around

this sensual sacrament; mouths agape

a discordant choir. Pax cat purrs, sun-licked.

*

Cabbage leaf, teapot,

tin can; these offerings are blessed. Mouse,

furball, sparrow bone.

*

The marriage is consummated; dirt

and dust made holy by a kiss.

Cat’s curious eye closes.

*

For cat,

adoration is assumed