Love Poem: Oleander, the Tragic Love Story of Hero and Leander
James Inman Avatar
Written by: James Inman

Oleander, the Tragic Love Story of Hero and Leander

Oh, how he struggles through storm swollen seas,
lost in the thought of his lover and he.
His toil made clear as he searches the night
for the flickering promise of her candle light.

Tossed by the waves as his muscles fatigue
in his grasp, a gift for his true love's intrigue.
Kept safe in the wrap of a soft silken veil
are fragrant white flowers, their scent to inhale. 

Step by steep step she traverses each flight
to the top of the stairs to wait by the light.
From the cusp of the spire she hopes and she craves
to see her Leander arise from the waves.

He yearns to be near her on the distant land 
and to touch her smooth skin with his calloused hand.
To hold her so gently and caress her soft breast
with his cheek pressed against her his body will rest.
 
His legs become heavy, his arms become weak
and he knows to attain his desire is bleak.
"Oh, Hero, my sweet I have lost you this night,"
the waters embrace him, he surrenders his life.

In the top of the tower above the tall trees
she waits for Leander to emerge from the sea. 
Through the mist she can see him, dead on the sand,
the white petals upon him and strewn 'cross the land.

"Oh, Leander my love I have waited for thee,
but now you are gone, killed by the sea.
Never again to kiss your sweet lips,
I will join you," she spoke, as her foot she let slip.