Jane Blanchard
Afterward

               according to Hilaire Belloc

A briar grows from Tristan’s grave,
Embeds itself in Iseult’s own.
Cut back by some assertive knave,
A briar grows from Tristan’s grave
Toward what it cannot help but crave.
No lover wants to lie alone.
Re-cut, what grows from Tristan’s grave
Embeds itself in Iseult’s own.