To a Caryatid

I chanced upon a caryatid

Who inquired as to what I did 

To land a fate far worse.

I wondered at my chosen course 

To wander the welkin

To wear out my welcome

At the plinth of kith and kin.

I chanced again to look within

And hollow was I to the distal winds.

She bade me hasten 

To the world’s rim.

To curse men free afoot;

With puny effort 

Achieve little wit 

Of merit or worth.