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The Cellist; Curriculum Vitae
The Cellist's parents were murdered in their
living room by two thugs of Rohm's S. A.
The Cellist's sister was raped by Hitler
Youth leaders who, afterwards, snapped her neck.
The Cellist's brother (so frail) perished of
pneumonia on a stock car to Auschwitz.
The Cellist died at Plaszow on the day---
the very day---Amon Goth was relieved.
The Cellist's own compositions and scores
had burned in the pogrom of Kristallnacht
The Cellist's cello survived multiple
debacles, being found intact in Linz.
Somewhere in Tel Aviv, another young
cellist plays that cello in recital.
College student, majoring in music
(performance) and modern history, he
believes this ground hallows his music;
this ground on which no jackboots have trampled.
His long black hair flows over his shoulders
the way harmony flows through and out of his soul.
Beneath his pressed slacks' cuffs, his unshod feet
(though sheathed in semi-sheer socks)
are well aware of the cool, smooth-tiled floor.
The cello's gently minor melody
vibrates beneath his fingers on the strings;
and, in his boyfriend's eager hearing, sings.
Five changes of keys---smooth, deft transitions---
remember five voices, stilled mercilessly.
Starward
[jlc]
