Mother, you are distraught with fever. Your temples are burning, your hands are cold.

The Mother

Why are doors and windows curtained so close?

Why is all so dark and still?

You stifle me in wrappings,

Bury me in cushions,

Me, who am yet alive.

Tell me, tell me why.

Jeremiah

Mother, calm yourself. Take my hands. I am here beside you.