THE TOAST

Do not throw the soft bodies of rice
at these we love. Instead, pelt them
with rocks. Scar their smooth skins

with the sharpest stones.
Make the groom bleed and the bride weep.
May they never forget this reception

in honor of their lives together.
May they learn that when one wears clothing
that catches on fire, the other must beat them

to save them from burning.

Peter Murphy