Pre-Conclave Thoughts

I wake up; blank sheet – April skies

Would a raindrop walk be wise?

Spring green gets cracking at slick pace

Roadside knotweed fights for space!

 

In nature, as in life, it’s true

Humans hate a vacuum too

So, Roman Catholics feel alone

Faced, alas, with empty throne…

 

Meanwhile, Pope Francis lies in state;

While cardinals will soon debate

Who can fill those bright red shoes;

The rumour mill emits few clues…

 

The ‘under-eighties’ votes must cast;

The Catholic Church, evolving fast,

Knows spirituality will weigh

In the balance – but which way?

 

Small State - but influence worldwide

Mixed press (which cannot be denied);

How long before the ‘white smoke’ round?

Will he who wins abjure the crown*?

(c) Poet in the woods 2025

* aka tiara

Update: Robert Francis Prevost (born 1955) from Chicago was promoted to cardinal by Pope Francis in 2024 and elected Pope on 8th May, 2025.

He will be known as Pope Leo XIV.