23 December 2012
He supposed his jitters were enough to
Exclude his participation in his
Trial.
But although he did all that he could do
To avoid it, it couldn't be helped: this
Was a doomed endeavour from the outset.
When gavel fell, he saw his life was bet
By barristers (acting for scale or coin?)
Who will not themselves, despite their crimes, join
Him in his condemnation. "Plead guilty
And they'll let you live." Their tones come lilting
Through deaf ears: bloodied by shame, guilt-ridden
And innocent. For truth remains hidden
Behind their words, so eloquent and just.
It won't be found: iron virtue will rust.
De jure • Opuss № I