The Artful Dodger
Pain, Pain, go away,
she sees you lurking there, just
around the corner of her fortress.
She is too swift for your
cruel intentions, as she slips
into the shadows of anonymity.
Clever girl learns to smile.
So brilliant, the brave farce of
tranquil abundant peace she conveys.
‘Tis merely slight of hand,
the magic of the unseen, for
the apathetic audience fooled.
Icy fingers grasp her hair as
she trembles ‘neath the cold
chill of sorrow closing in.
Lights her candle in the dark
to ward off the evil winds
of despair that blow around her.
Whispers her vespers into the night,
sleep coming all too slowly,
and with it, sweet dreams of freedom.
Awakes before the light of dawn
casts long shadows across
her open heart,-bleeding, tender, free.
Quickly wraps herself in silken
scarves, woolen cloak, her armor
of insignificant splendor once more.
Beneath the smudged cheeks
lie delicate petals, soft and sweet,
hungry for love’s passionate bloom.
Begging for alms as she peers
around dark corners, trusting
no one, lest sorrow be that guest.
None but death may come upon
her sitting patiently and ready
to take the hand that offers sweet repose.
Cheryl KP
2014
Tropical Affair 