Aelius, from ancient Lamus
as those elder Lamiae
read the family lineage
in the social register.
The line’s founder they
say held Formiae’s walls
and Marica’s shore where
the River Liris swims —
broad dominion. Tomorrow leaves
will litter the grove,
seaweed the beach, unless
the crow — rain’s augur —
deceives. Gather dry wood
while you can. Tomorrow
ease your genius with
wine and suckling pig.