(for Mary Ann)

 

This afternoon when the bells

Of San Giacomo call the faithful in,

 

Each note ripples across the lake

And the hills of Bellagio light up

 

With sounds familiar to the resonance

Of tile, marble, and earth growing

 

Long-eared irises. I wear red for you today

In San Giacomo, to offer blessings

 

Of a mother embracing your absence,

Even as she gathers these Easter roses,

 

Or lights one votive candle at vespers.