Love Poem: Tears For Apollo

Tears For Apollo

Oh, my precious child, let me kiss away your weep -
     do not be troubled, the moon but bids good night,
          (stars whispering their ancient lullaby),
               swallowing not, the western reach,
                    but merely giving pause to the day, waking ...

So that the grateful star of morn should err its ease.
     Let not the salty seep of your cheek yet trill ...
          such certain and elegant iniquity there be,
               should a stain darken that pinafore, pressed.
                    A scandal be my name with thy mother,

If those sparkling eyes dampen your Sunday best,
     and for the sake of Apollo's languor? Nay ...
          'tis true his aged face did blush there, brief,
               dipping his countenance to the sea,
                    but it was for Sol's regard only,

Their goodnight kiss - and no misfortune was spun.
     We shall return, my child, sooner than soon,
          and you will bear witness their recurrence!
               Your old man moon will beg company again,
                    with his patient visage beaming ...

Shimmering bright for your adoration -
     oh, I vow this to you, my wee lass!
          You shall dance again on this shore,
               bound and prance, my tiny ballerina!
                    You will twirl in the breath of evening, I am sure,

Lit by the gangling glow, star-ward,
     and tonight's lament will seem a silly song,
          you shall see and be heartened, my little one!
               And should I yet kiss that weep away, too?
                    Ah, but joyous, those tears ... oh, my precious child!





~ 1st Place ~  in the "Your Choice (4), Any Form, Any Theme" Poetry Contest, Brian Strand, Judge & Sponsor.

~ 2nd Place ~  in the "2019 Poetry Marathon Mile 18" Poetry Contest, Mark Toney, Judge & Sponsor.