Whole crypts ransacked

preserved body parts found re-examined

attics and cellars raided for cans of film

inhabitants of nursing homes grilled to despair

whispers and wills plundered for half truths,

and all the while the ghosts of narcissists recalled

assembling in long galleries of haunted houses lit by arc lights. 

 

Private beaches combed for evidence of washed up

careers, old maids bribed for stories of bliss

in open topped limousines and sedans,

moments relived, dawn's uneasy discoveries

in first time bedrooms in sunset boulevard or Bel Air. 

 

Firmly replace the lid on all this

fix with bolts, locks and chains

apply skull and crossbones with stencils

launch a thousand careers into the deep

to the plaintive sinking of Hawaiian guitars.