He is the First (not “was”), and is the Last

(Not “will be”). Then why travel? To what end?

What is the symbol I am set to find?

What is that burning heart of blood to spend

Caught in a sunset with the night behind,

The Grail of God? I would that I were blind!

I would that I were desolate and dumb,

Naked and poor! That He might manifest

A crimson glory subtly caught and come,

An opal crucible of Alkahest!