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Bacchus and Ariadne by Titian Bacchus dressed in skins and fine purples comes riding to the shore; debauched and sinful he craves the willowy nymph drowning in a sea of lilies. Ariadne betrayed by her lover grieves on the shores of Naxos for the loss of Theseus. How beautiful and pale the forlorn child looks. Her breasts are almost bare her neck is long and slender and a promise of blemished innocence shades her eyes. Frenzy drives the god insane. He brings her garlands made of stars and scatters orchids and red roses at her feet. Drunk with lust the takes the frightened child to his marriage chamber and on the bridal bed with kisses beyond limits he meanders on her thighs until she throbs with joy. Driven to the peaks she casts her love for Theseus and all her morals in the sea and she revels in the rhythm of his honey-dripping flute. Drunken satyrs sway in darkness; with glazed eyes, they beseech their master until god and goblins are one. Ariadne free at last of all wrecked prisons, guides Bacchus and his beasts into labyrinths of sinful pleasure. Prudence is destroyed, her sensual mouth brims with honey and unbridled chaos rules the land. A few words about the poem…   The Enchanting Tale of Bacchus and Ariadne: A Journey Through Greek Mythology Poems   The narrative of Bacchus and Ariadne, rooted deeply in Greek mythology, has inspired countless artistic and literary works. This poem, "Bacchus and Ariadne," belongs to the series Greek Mythology Poems, capturing the essence of divine indulgence and mortal longing.   In the lore of Greek mythology, Ariadne, the daughter of King Minos of Crete, is an emblem of love and betrayal. She aided Theseus, the Athenian hero, in escaping the Labyrinth after slaying the Minotaur, only to face abandonment on the island of Naxos. Here, the myths diverge: either she succumbs to despair, or she is found and wed by Bacchus, the god of wine and revelry.   The poem vividly illustrates Bacchus' arrival, clad in skins and fine purples, embodying both debauchery and divine desire. His arrival on Naxos sets the stage for a passionate encounter. The description of Ariadne as a "forlorn child" with "blemished innocence" evokes her vulnerability and the poignant shift from innocence to ecstasy.   Ariadne’s initial sorrow, lamenting her betrayal by Theseus, is portrayed with delicate imagery. Her grief is palpable as she grieves on the shores of Naxos, a symbol of lost love and shattered dreams. The poem’s depiction of her physical beauty—her almost bare breasts, long slender neck, and eyes shaded with innocence—captures the reader’s empathy for her plight.   As Bacchus approaches, driven by frenzy and lust, the poem transitions into a vivid tableau of divine seduction. The god's actions—bringing garlands made of stars, scattering orchids, and red roses at her feet—symbolize both his love and his overwhelming desire. The intensity of their union is conveyed with striking language, describing how Bacchus' kisses lead Ariadne to revel in joy and abandon her past love.   The poem reaches a crescendo as Ariadne embraces the rhythm of a "honey-dripping flute," casting aside her morals and succumbing to the chaotic pleasures of Bacchus’ realm. The imagery of drunken satyrs swaying in darkness, merging with their master, paints a scene of unrestrained ecstasy and primal unity.   Ariadne’s transformation is complete as she guides Bacchus and his followers into "labyrinths of sinful pleasure." This vivid depiction of their union signifies a release from her past sorrows and an embrace of her newfound power and freedom. The poem concludes with Ariadne’s sensual mouth brimming with honey, a metaphor for the intoxicating bliss and unbridled chaos that now rule her existence.

A Drowned Refugee Child in boats with broken masts they come looking for a manger but our inn is full tonight the inn we built on the skull and bones of Africa and who will hear the screams of children with blisters for a skin and who will listen to a father's cry cradling his lifeless son and who will love three thousand children with green lips and fleshless skulls in this cruel and loveless sea even the dead begin to weep A few words about the poem…   The Migrant Song: A Powerful Entry in Anti-War Poems   In the poignant verse of "The Migrant Song," a profound narrative unfolds, evoking the harrowing experiences of those seeking refuge across treacherous waters. As part of the series "Anti-War Poems," this work explores themes of displacement, suffering, and the consequences of global conflicts, highlighting the often-overlooked plight of migrants.   The poem begins with an image of boats with broken masts, symbolizing the fragile and perilous journey of refugees. They come "looking for a manger," invoking a sense of desperate hope and biblical imagery of seeking shelter. However, the stark reality is quickly presented: "our inn is full tonight," signifying the rejection and lack of hospitality that these individuals face upon arrival.   A powerful critique is embedded in the line, "the inn we built / on the skull and bones of Africa," which alludes to the historical exploitation and colonization that have contributed to current crises. This acknowledgement of complicity serves as a reminder of the broader context within which these migrations occur, pointing to the lingering effects of imperialism and economic disparity.   The poem then shifts focus to the individual suffering of migrants. The visceral imagery of "children’s screams / with blisters for a skin" and a father "cradling his lifeless son" brings to light the personal tragedies that are part of this broader narrative. These lines resonate deeply, illustrating the human cost of conflict and displacement.   The recurring question, "and who will love / three thousand children / with green lips and fleshless skulls," underscores the overwhelming nature of the crisis. The green lips suggest the effects of decay in the sea waters where they drowned, while the fleshless skulls evoke images of death. This haunting portrayal challenges the reader to consider their own response to such widespread suffering.   In the concluding lines, the sea itself is described as "cruel and loveless," an indifferent expanse that magnifies the despair of those lost to it. The assertion that "even the dead begin to weep" speaks to an almost cosmic sorrow, as if the magnitude of the tragedy has reverberated beyond the living.   "The Migrant Song" stands as a significant contribution to the series of Anti-War Poems, encapsulating the themes of displacement and the human cost of conflict. By drawing attention to the suffering of migrants and the historical contexts that have shaped their journeys, the poem challenges readers to reflect on their own role in addressing these ongoing humanitarian crises.

Kingsway Day College, Gower Street Once upon an ancient time in the days of dust and innocence Mr. Clements at the gate holding hands with D. H. Lawrence —thank you, Mr. Clements; thank you— Nitah from the old landscape leaning on an open window fragile; trusting; all soft curls and dancing bracelets. Her kindness touched my life and all that was ever good shivered and trembled in my hands. A shy afternoon— chastity and desire on a little yellow bed an avalanche of passion and all our days of spring; her first cry, her scent and her whispers. We never said goodbye, not properly. There were no last words, no kind lies or promises of friendship. We walked away silently, both too young to have known such sadness. Gower Street is now another place. The coffee shop, the park, the little cinema— all gone. This is now a new world for old lives. One, two, three hours go by. How? When? The shadows are so much longer. How quickly morning turned to dusk. A few words about the poem… Gower Street | A Poetic Tapestry of Longing and Nostalgia | Coming-of-Age Poems In the poem “Gower Street” by the Cyprus poet Chris Zachariou, the reader is transported to a bygone era where innocence and desire intermingle, evoking a tapestry of emotions that lingers long after the final verse. This mesmerizing coming-of-age poem, written with a delicate touch of poetic grace, invites us to embark on a journey through the depths of love and loss, where fragments of forgotten memories and lingering passions find solace within its lines. Through evocative imagery and tender nuances, the poet captures the essence of a time when innocent youth traversed the cobblestone paths of Gower Street. The poem's opening lines, reminiscent of an age-old tale, set the stage for a narrative brimming with whispered confessions and hidden desires. At the heart of this melancholy poem, Nitah an ethereal presence from the ancient homeland, leans upon an open window exuding fragility, and trust. Her kindness touches the speaker, causing all that is good in him to awaken in his life. The delicate dance of chastity and desire unfolds upon a little yellow bed, where an avalanche of passion collides with the blossoming days of spring. The poet's vivid descriptions paint a tableau of raw emotion, from her lingering scent and her hushed whispers to her first cry in their first adult encounter. Amidst the poignant beauty, the poem reveals an undercurrent of longing and unfulfilled farewells. No proper goodbyes are exchanged, leaving the reader to ponder the weight of unsaid words, promises left unfulfilled , and a myriad of what-ifs. As the hours tick by, shadows lengthen and morning seamlessly transitions into dusk, offering a poignant reminder of life's fleeting nature. The poem's lyrical rhythm and haunting imagery attempt to capture the reader's imagination, immersing them in a world of profound sadness where youth grapples with the depths of sorrow beyond their tender years. Gower Street, once a vibrant tapestry of coffee shops, parks, and its tiny cinema, now stands as a poignant reminder of the passage of time and the transient nature of human connection. It encapsulates the essence of forbidden allure and the bittersweet longing that resonates within the human soul. With each line, the poet weaves a tapestry of emotions, inviting the reader to reflect on the timeless themes of love, loss, and the transformative power of memory.

Jupiter Beguiled by Juno in myths and make-believe she gifts herself to the stellar king hungry mouths probing tongues lithe limbs in a sea of green lips on flesh and flesh in lips to her zenith to her zenith there and back and there again A few words about the poem… Eternal Encounters: Exploring Intimacy in Greek Mythology Poems The poem "Zeus and the Virgin" weaves a narrative through its concise yet vivid imagery, capturing the essence of mythological allure and intimate encounters. The opening lines, "in myths / and make-believe," establish a realm where the boundaries of reality and fantasy blur, invoking the timeless nature of mythological storytelling.   The phrase "she gifts herself / to the stellar king" positions the virgin as an active participant in the narrative, bestowing her presence to Zeus, the celestial ruler. This act of gifting highlights both agency and submission, echoing the complex dynamics often found in mythological tales.   The subsequent lines, "hungry mouths / probing tongues / lithe limbs," evoke a sense of physicality and desire, painting a scene of fervent interaction. The repetition of sensory imagery—mouths, tongues, limbs—intensifies the intimacy of the moment, drawing the reader into the immediacy of the encounter.   The "sea of green" metaphorically situates the scene in a natural, possibly pastoral setting, where the verdant backdrop enhances the primal connection between the characters. This natural imagery is complemented by "lips on flesh / and flesh in lips," a vivid depiction of mutual desire and union.   The refrain "to her zenith / to her zenith / there and back / and there again" underscores a cyclical journey of pleasure and fulfilment. The repetition emphasizes the rhythmic nature of the encounter, suggesting a continuous ebb and flow that mirrors natural cycles and the mythological theme of eternal recurrence.   Overall, "Zeus and the virgin," from the series Greek Mythology Poems, distils a mythic encounter into a series of potent images and rhythms, offering a glimpse into the timeless dance between gods and mortals, desire and fulfilment. The poem's brevity and intensity leave a lasting impression, inviting readers to explore the depths of myth and imagination.

Nuclear War Armageddon has begun. Can you not hear the sound of seven trumpets? Noah's ark is sinking fast. Time has stopped and all that lives is going to die. Eagles swoop down on the little white doves tearing their flesh apart. Vultures dressed as lions come out of mushroom clouds spreading death across the land. Villages and cities burn. Corpses lay on mountainsides and maggots feast on rotting flesh. In bloodied seas and murky rivers drowned men with bloated bodies go floating by to the water. Mother, Father go and look for your son go and look for your daughter go looking for each other. Mother, Father don't you know, tonight is going to be your turn to die. A few words about the poem… An Apocalyptic Vision of a Nuclear War | Anti-War Poems " The Sound of Seven Trumpets" conjures a vivid and harrowing depiction of an apocalyptic scenario. Through stark and unsettling imagery, the poem immerses readers in a world on the brink of annihilation. It begins with the emphatic declaration of Armageddon, immediately establishing an atmosphere of impending doom. The question posed, "Can you not hear the sound of seven trumpets?" invokes the biblical reference to the Book of Revelation, where the sounding of trumpets signifies the onset of divine judgment. This allusion sets the stage for the catastrophic events that follow, grounding the poem in a tradition of prophetic literature.   The metaphor of Noah's ark sinking fast underscores the hopelessness of the situation. Unlike the biblical ark, which was a vessel of salvation, this sinking ark symbolizes the failure of any escape or refuge. The cessation of time further heightens the sense of inevitability and finality, suggesting that all forms of life are on the verge of extinction. This imagery conveys a profound sense of despair, as it becomes clear that no one can escape the approaching doom.   As the poem progresses, the imagery becomes increasingly graphic and disturbing. Eagles swooping down on little white doves symbolizes the destruction of peace and innocence. The mention of vultures dressed as lions emerging from mushroom clouds introduces a dual symbol of both death and deception. Lions, typically seen as noble and powerful, are here associated with the fallout of nuclear devastation, implying that even the mightiest are tainted by this catastrophe. This metaphorical language underscores the pervasive and inescapable nature of the destruction.   The landscape painted by the poem is one of utter desolation. Villages and cities burn, leaving behind a charred and lifeless expanse. The presence of corpses on mountainsides and the gruesome image of maggots feasting on rotting flesh emphasize the grotesque aftermath of the apocalypse. The depiction of drowned men with bloated bodies in bloodied seas and murky rivers adds to the sense of pervasive decay and corruption. These vivid descriptions serve to immerse the reader in the horrific reality of this imagined end of the world.   Amidst the broader canvas of devastation, the poem introduces a deeply personal and poignant element through the repeated plea to parents. The lines "Mother, Father, go and look for your son, go and look for your daughter, go looking for each other" evoke the universal and primal fear of losing loved ones. This repetition underscores the desperation and helplessness felt by those who are left to search in vain. The call to parents highlights the intimate human cost of the apocalypse, contrasting the vast scale of destruction with individual tragedies.   The poem concludes with a sombre and chilling warning. The statement "Mother, Father, don't you know, tonight is going to be your turn to die" reinforces the inescapable nature of the apocalypse. This final line brings the universal theme of mortality into sharp focus, suggesting that no one is exempt from the impending doom. The poem's ending leaves readers with a sense of profound inevitability, as the cycle of life and death reaches its terminal point.   "The Sound of Seven Trumpets," from the series “Anti-War Poems,” weaves together biblical allusion, vivid imagery, and personal tragedy to create a portrayal of an apocalyptic vision. The poem's stark and unflinching depiction of destruction and death serves as a meditation on the fragility of life and the inescapable nature of mortality. Through its evocative language and haunting imagery, the poem leaves a lasting impression of doom and despair, inviting readers to reflect on the profound themes it explores.

Men with God on their side fly high in the burning skies. Napalm death pours down on little children fleeing in terror their tiny bodies burning. Rotting corpses cover all the fields for miles around but the man with the German twang commands his men to drop more bombs and for that he wins the Nobel prize. In a walled city in another country men who dress in red and black live and pray in gilded churches. They feast on lamb and wine to the sound of children sobbing and ignore the blood and tears staining their feather beds. They too are men who claim to have God on their side. A few words about the poem… Anti-War Poems: A Reflection on “Suffer the Little Children'"   "Suffer the Little Children" presents a stark and harrowing portrayal of the innocent victims of war, examining the devastating consequences of conflict on those least able to defend themselves. Part of the anti-war poems collection, it intertwines vivid imagery and biting irony to highlight the brutality of war, particularly the suffering inflicted upon children. This piece fits within the broader tradition of poetry that seeks to give voice to the voiceless, underscoring the moral corruption inherent in the pursuit of power and the hypocrisy often present among those who justify their actions through religious or ideological fervour.   The poem opens with a chilling contrast: “Men with God on their side / fly high in the burning skies.” This juxtaposition of divine endorsement with acts of violence serves to critique the way religion or ideology is often invoked to justify the most heinous acts. The subsequent imagery of “Napalm death” raining down on “little children fleeing in terror” starkly captures the horror experienced by the innocent victims of war. The poet’s choice to focus on the children’s “tiny bodies burning” intensifies the emotional impact, illustrating the unimaginable pain and fear suffered by those caught in the crossfire of conflicts they neither started nor understand.   The poem’s second stanza continues this theme of moral decay, as the fields are described as being covered in “rotting corpses,” yet the figure of authority—a man “with the German twang”—remains unmoved. His command to “drop more bombs” despite the carnage below not only emphasises his indifference to human suffering but also critiques the larger systems of power that reward such callousness. The bitter irony of this man receiving a Nobel Prize serves as a scathing indictment of the hypocrisy often found within institutions that claim to uphold peace and justice, yet are complicit in the perpetuation of violence.   In the final stanza, the poem shifts focus to another group of men, this time depicted as residing in a “walled city” and dressed in “red and black.” These figures, who live in luxury and piety, are starkly contrasted with the suffering of the children whose cries they ignore. The imagery of “blood and tears” staining their “feather beds” serves as a powerful metaphor for the moral and spiritual corruption that results from turning a blind eye to the suffering of others. The poem suggests that these men, like those dropping bombs, claim to have “God on their side,” thus critiquing the broader societal and religious structures that allow such atrocities to occur.   In this exploration of the innocent victims of war, "Suffer the Little Children" confronts the reader with the brutal realities of conflict and the moral failings of those who perpetrate and perpetuate violence. The poem’s unflinching depiction of suffering, coupled with its critique of hypocrisy and the misuse of religious justification, positions it as a powerful commentary on the human cost of war. By focusing on the plight of children, the poem underscores the profound injustice faced by those who are most vulnerable, offering a poignant reflection on the true cost of conflict. Through its vivid and unsettling imagery, the poem forces the reader to confront the uncomfortable truth that, in war, it is often the innocent who suffer the most.

Rachel with a yellow star on her tiny little arm walks into the jaws of death. Smoke pours out of the chimney and the smell of burning flesh hangs heavy in the air. Ismail is screaming. He cannot see but still can feel his leg that's no longer there. Death keeps falling from the sky and all the time you can hear the cries of children dying. Mariam embraces her future— a stick of dynamite and a gun. Then she walks into a mosque. A few words about the poem… Little Children – The Innocent Victims in the Anti-War   "Little Children" presents a stark portrayal of the innocence lost amidst the horrors of war and persecution. The imagery in this poem underscores the vulnerability and tragic fate of children caught in such devastating circumstances.   The poem, part of the collection “Anti-War,” opens with Rachel, a child marked by a yellow star, a symbol of the Holocaust. The mention of her "tiny little arm" emphasizes her youth and innocence, starkly contrasting with the "jaws of death" she walks into. The subsequent lines evoke the grim reality of concentration camps, where "smoke pours out of the chimney," and the "smell of burning flesh" serves as a harrowing reminder of the lives lost in such brutal settings.   The second stanza shifts to Ismail, whose suffering is palpable. His scream and the vivid description of his phantom limb pain reflect the ongoing trauma experienced by victims of violence. The imagery here highlights the indiscriminate nature of war, where even the youngest are not spared its cruelty.   The third stanza generalizes the plight of children in war zones, with "death keeps falling from the sky" symbolizing bombings and aerial attacks. The "cries of children dying" resonate as a universal cry for help and a testament to the widespread impact of conflict on the youngest and most defenceless.   In the final stanza, Mariam's tragic embrace of violence illustrates the cycle of despair and radicalization. Her transformation from innocence to an instrument of terror is a powerful commentary on the corrosive effects of war on the human spirit. The juxtaposition of her actions with the setting of a mosque, a place of worship and peace, further intensifies the tragedy of her lost childhood.   Overall, "Little Children" captures the heart-wrenching experiences of children in times of extreme adversity, conveying their suffering and the devastating loss of innocence through stark, unembellished imagery.

The Haunting Echoes of Betrayal My imagined life: All the photos in the hall football games in the park on Sundays birthday songs and squeals of laughter. With a red carnation on his lapel, dark glasses and a menthol cigarette he takes your hand and I nearly die. I envy him; This icon and hero of our times who takes it all from me so easily and with such panache. Part of the Old Stories cycle of poems A few words about the poem… Melancholy Poems: A Tale of Betrayal and Loss   In "Melancholy Poems: A Hero of Our Times," the poet navigates the terrain of shattered dreams and fractured relationships, crafting a narrative that resonates with the haunting echoes of betrayal and loss. Within the tapestry of reminiscence, the protagonist's imagined life unfolds against a backdrop of idyllic scenes and cherished memories, only to be irrevocably altered by the intrusion of a seductive interloper.   As the poem unfurls, the narrator's recollections are suffused with a sense of bittersweet nostalgia, tinged with the poignant ache of longing and regret. Amidst the photographs adorning the hall and the jubilant echoes of football games in the park, there lies an undercurrent of melancholy, as the spectre of betrayal looms large on the horizon.   The enigmatic figure, with his crimson carnation and beguiling allure, emerges as a central figure in the narrative, casting a shadow over the narrator's once-cherished illusions of happiness. During laughter and celebration, his presence serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of love and the capriciousness of fate.   It is through the lens of retrospective reflection that the true impact of the protagonist's actions is revealed, as the narrator grapples with the searing pain of abandonment and betrayal. The once-rosy hues of domestic bliss are now tinged with the sombre shades of disillusionment, as he confronts the harsh reality of shattered dreams and fractured trust.   In "Melancholy Poems: A Hero of Our Times," the poet invites readers to bear witness to the poignant unravelling of a once-cherished romance, as love gives way to heartache and longing. Through the evocative imagery of memory and loss, they illuminate the complexities of human emotion, offering a poignant testament to the enduring power of melancholy in the tapestry of human experience.

A Body in a Mortuary | Getty Images Night falls on London Town. Hustlers, dancers, and musicians and all who know the seedier side of city life begin to drift to work.   Men steal greedy glances at teenage girls in low-cut dresses and hungry youngsters full of lust head for Soho to the bars and clubs. New lovers meet, old lovers kiss and the smell of sex is hanging in the air.   Home-sick fragile girls —most almost children— begin once more their life of shame.   Bewildered and afraid they lean in darkened doorways ready to sell their battered bodies on seedy beds in dingy basements.   Homeless wrecks, gather at Waterloo to spend their night in cardboard boxes. Their stories never told—from a baby girl or baby boy to a drunken mess, with nothing in their wretched lives but a flask of meths.   Three in the morning.   John O'Kelly in an alcoholic stupor tries in vain to forget Veronica. She had said she would stay forever but as she was promising undying love she was opening their door to leave.   All is quiet at this hour except for the sound of those hurting and of all who lost all hope and of the sound of Johnny's body floating silently down the river. A few words about the poem… Poems of Despair: An Analysis of “The Ballad of John O’Kelly”   "The Ballad of John O’Kelly" is a striking example of poems of despair and loneliness, delving deep into the bleak realities of life on the margins of society. Through its vivid portrayal of London's nocturnal world, the poem captures the profound isolation and sorrow experienced by its characters, reflecting a broader commentary on the human condition.   The poem begins with the descent of night over London, signalling the emergence of those who navigate the city's underbelly. The initial verses paint a picture of a world where desperation and longing are ever-present, with men casting "greedy glances" and "hungry youngsters" seeking momentary satisfaction in the hedonistic spaces of Soho. This setting serves as a backdrop for the exploration of despair and loneliness that characterises the lives of the poem's subjects.   Central to the poem's theme are the "home-sick fragile girls," whose presence underscores the vulnerability of youth drawn into cycles of exploitation. Described as "almost children," these girls embody a tragic innocence lost, forced into "a life of shame" that perpetuates their isolation. Their bewilderment and fear, as they "lean in darkened doorways," highlight the emotional desolation that defines their existence. These images resonate with the theme of despair that runs through the poem, marking it as a poignant addition to the tradition of poems of despair and loneliness.   The poem’s focus then shifts to the homeless, gathering at Waterloo station. The image of "homeless wrecks" spending the night in "cardboard boxes" is a powerful commentary on the alienation faced by society’s most disenfranchised. Their "stories never told" emphasise the invisibility of these individuals, whose lives have been reduced to "a flask of meths." This portrayal serves as a critique of a society that neglects its most vulnerable, leaving them in a state of perpetual despair and loneliness.   John O’Kelly, the poem's titular character, is introduced in the final stanzas, epitomising the personal toll of loneliness. His attempt to "forget Veronica" in an "alcoholic stupor" reflects the depth of his despair, as he grapples with the emotional void left by her departure. The image of his "body floating silently down the river" at the poem’s close is a stark representation of the ultimate surrender to hopelessness. This quiet demise, unnoticed by the world, encapsulates the profound isolation that can accompany such despair.   "The Ballad of John O’Kelly" offers a sombre reflection on the themes of despair and loneliness, positioning itself within a tradition of poems that explore the darker aspects of the human experience. Through its stark imagery and unflinching portrayal of life on the margins, the poem invites readers to confront the realities faced by those who live in the shadows of society. In doing so, it contributes to a broader discourse on the emotional and psychological impacts of loneliness and despair, making it a compelling example of poems of despair and loneliness.   This poem is dedicated to my dear friend John O’Kelly, may he rest in peace.

Pirates Gambling for Maidens I. An icy North Wind sailing on green and purple seas whips and mauls the land. The frozen peaks of the Anatolian Mountains tower in the distance and the Moor is howling in the Devil's Sea. Brave warriors of five and six shelter in hushed classrooms until the battered day is done. When the school bell rings muddy boots and ties undone pour silently into lanes and streets. St Michael with a gleaming sword stands on the spire of his church so high his head is resting at the feet of God. The graveyard with its crumbling steps and the whispers of the lipless dead is surely the gate to the World of Nether. Shades linger in its darkness searching for a child's body and a demijohn of blood. I fall into my grandpa's arms, he bolts the door against the anger of the wind and banishes the whispers of the skulls. II. Late at night sitting on his knee by the fireside I listen to him spin the yarn of the Pirates and the Moor: Once so long ago on a darksome night ships came draped in black with blacker flags of bones and skulls. Blood dripping scimitars and demons poured from their bowels of hell folk locked their doors prayed to the Lord for mercy and prepared to die. In the storm-tossed night, I hear howls and screams I see shadows fighting on the walls and the room is filled with the pungent smell of burning flesh. Craving virgin flesh the fearsome Moor has come to rape and pillage. Men and women lie in pools of blood and girls and boys are dragged wailing to open fields and darkened barns. Brimstone and fire and avenging angels pour down from the burning skies. In a flash of white fury our Guardian Angel brings down his scythe onto the Arab's neck and hurls his writhing body far into the Devil's Sea. III. A pale sun rises in the morning sky. Ploughmen are out in the fields once more and shepherds are climbing up to the hills again. Fishermen sit by the quay chewing tobacco, they smoke roll-ups and tell stories of the ones who drowned and of the perils of the sea. The voices of the dead are silent. The Anatolian Mountains have melted in the distance and the Moor whimpers once again in the Devil's Sea. A few words about the poem… Winter Tales from the Cyprus Poems: A Journey Through Memory, Myth, and the Power of Storytelling   The coming-of-age poem "Winter Tales," part of the collection Cyprus Poems, is a haunting meditation on childhood, family, and the enduring magic of storytelling. Its layered narrative intertwines the innocence of youthful imagination with the gravity of ancestral myths, creating a tapestry of reflection, nostalgia, and cultural inheritance. Through its vivid imagery, emotive language, and compelling interplay between past and present, the poem reveals its themes of wonder, fear, and resilience in the face of the unknown.   The structure of "Winter Tales" is divided into three distinct movements, each representing a progression in mood and meaning. The first establishes a stark, wintry setting that mirrors the inner tension of the narrator's young self, a boy grappling with the interplay of fascination and fear. The second movement invites readers into the fantastical realm of storytelling, where the voice of the boy’s grandfather spins a tale of pirates, Moorish invaders, and divine retribution. The third movement returns to a quiet, reflective dawn, where the echoes of the night’s tales linger softly but persistently, shaping the narrator’s understanding of the world.   The Wintry Setting and the Inner World of the Child   The opening lines of the poem evoke the chilling landscape of Yialousa, Cyprus in winter, where the "icy North Wind sailing / on green and purple seas" assaults the land. These descriptions do more than paint a seasonal backdrop; they establish a world of contrasts, where the beauty of the natural world collides with its inherent violence. The imagery of the Anatolian Mountains, "frozen peaks towering in the distance," creates a physical and symbolic horizon—unreachable, mysterious, and filled with both allure and foreboding.   For the young narrator, the winter represents more than just weather. The land’s barrenness and the wind’s rage mirror the uncertainties of childhood, a time when the imagination is at its most fertile and the boundaries between reality and fantasy blur. In this world, St Michael, his sword gleaming, becomes a distant protector, a figure who bridges the divine and the earthly. The graveyard’s crumbling steps and the "whispers of the lipless dead" contrast sharply with this celestial guardian, adding a layer of macabre fascination that fuels the boy’s vivid inner life.   Storytelling as a Shield and Portal   As the wind’s fury drives the narrator into his grandfather’s arms, the poem transitions from the outer landscape to the intimate space of hearth and home. This shift marks the beginning of the second movement, where the act of storytelling assumes centre stage. The grandfather’s voice, rendered in evocative detail, brings to life tales of pirate ships, blood-drenched scimitars, and the dreaded Moor who preys upon the innocent.   The grandfather’s tale operates on multiple levels. For the boy, it is an escape, a way to make sense of the primal fears stirred by the storm and the eerie whispers outside. The story’s vividness, from "ships draped in black / with blacker flags of bones and skulls" to the "smell of burning flesh," transforms the boy’s immediate surroundings into a theatre of the imagination. Shadows on the walls become combatants; the howling wind becomes the cries of marauders.   At the same time, the tale serves as a bridge between generations, linking the boy to his ancestors' struggles and triumphs. Through the grandfather’s words, the boy encounters a version of history where good triumphs over evil, where "avenging angels pour down / from the burning skies," and where the "Guardian Angel" wields a scythe to banish the Moor’s darkness. Yet, even as the tale offers comfort, its underlying violence and tension resonate with the complexities of human existence, hinting at the fragile balance between innocence and experience.   A Quiet Dawn: The Aftermath of Tales   The poem’s third movement shifts to the calm after the storm. The rising sun illuminates a world renewed yet unchanged, where life resumes its rhythms as ploughmen and shepherds return to their tasks. The imagery of fishermen chewing tobacco and telling tales of their own underscores the continuity of storytelling as a human tradition.   Yet, the final lines carry a subtle ambivalence. The voices of the dead have quieted, and the Anatolian Mountains have "melted in the distance," but the Moor’s whimpering in the Devil’s Sea lingers. This unresolved note reminds readers that the fears and wonders of childhood do not entirely fade; they become part of the fabric of identity, shaping how we perceive the world and navigate its uncertainties.   Themes of Memory, Myth, and Protection   At its heart, "Winter Tales" explores the interplay between memory and myth. The boy’s recollection of his grandfather’s stories becomes a lens through which he understands his place in the world. The poem also examines the protective power of storytelling. The grandfather’s narratives shield the boy from the immediate terrors of the storm, yet they also expose him to the darker truths of life—violence, mortality, and the eternal struggle between good and evil.   The poem’s structure mirrors the journey of a child navigating the thresholds of understanding. From the fear-laden landscape of the opening lines to the imagined heroics of the middle section and the quiet reflection of the closing stanza, "Winter Tales" encapsulates the essence of coming-of-age, where innocence is tempered by knowledge, and wonder persists despite the shadows it reveals.   Analysis of the Themes in the Poem   The primary theme of "Winter Tales" is the transformative power of storytelling, particularly as a means of navigating childhood’s fears and fascinations. Through the act of storytelling, the grandfather provides not only entertainment but also a moral framework for understanding the world.   The poem also delves into the theme of generational connection. The grandfather’s tales are a cultural inheritance, linking the boy to a shared history of struggle, resilience, and moral clarity. This intergenerational bond highlights the role of family in shaping identity and imparting wisdom.   Finally, the theme of coming-of-age is central to the poem. The narrator’s journey from fear to fascination to reflection mirrors the broader human experience of growth and self-discovery.   Analysis of the Verse   "Winter Tales" employs a free-verse structure that mirrors the fluidity of memory and imagination. The poem’s three-part division creates a sense of progression, with each section offering a distinct mood and narrative focus.   The language is vivid yet accessible, capturing the immediacy of the boy’s experiences while allowing space for the reader’s interpretation. The use of repetition, particularly in the grandfather’s dialogue, reinforces the oral tradition of storytelling and its rhythmic, almost hypnotic quality.   Analysis of the Symbolism   The poem’s symbolism is rich and multifaceted. The icy North Wind and the Anatolian Mountains represent both external challenges and internal fears, while the graveyard and its lipless dead serve as metaphors for mortality and the unknown.   The Moor, a figure of menace and desire, embodies the external threats faced by the community, as well as the internal struggles of the human psyche. The Guardian Angel’s intervention symbolises the enduring hope for divine protection and moral justice.   Main Poetic Imagery   The imagery in "Winter Tales" is striking and evocative. From the "icy North Wind sailing / on green and purple seas" to the "smell of burning flesh," the poem engages all the senses, creating a vivid, immersive experience. The contrast between the beauty of the natural world and the violence of the grandfather’s tales underscores the dualities of life—safety and danger, innocence and experience, memory and myth.   Religious Symbolism Impact   Religious symbolism plays a subtle yet significant role in "Winter Tales." St Michael, with his gleaming sword, represents divine protection, while the Guardian Angel’s intervention in the grandfather’s tale underscores the moral and spiritual dimensions of the narrative.   The Moor’s depiction as a demonic figure reflects the community’s historical and cultural fears, while the "whispers of the lipless dead" evoke notions of purgatory and the eternal struggle between good and evil. Through these elements, the poem invites readers to reflect on the interplay of faith, fear, and resilience in shaping human experience.   "Winter Tales," with its rich imagery, layered narrative, and universal themes, stands as a testament to the enduring power of storytelling. As part of the collection "Cyprus Poems," it contributes to the broader tapestry of Cyprus Poetry, celebrating the intersections of memory, myth, and cultural heritage. This coming-of-age poem invites readers to revisit their own childhood wonder, while reminding them of the timeless narratives that connect us all.

The Breakup of a Relationship - Photo by Eric Ward I remember your pain when your lover left and your joy when another came to stay. He was famous, a hero and a legend with a crown of laurels on his head. He filled your world with brave dreams and dazzled you with his light.   A giant who towered above the rest. I get it now; I couldn't ever have competed with such a hero for I was just a mortal man. You were blinded by his brilliant light. All your past and present sorrows were gone soothed away by a slight movement of his hand. But soon he too began to lose his crown. As he held you in his arms and sighed you could not see that far and distant look that was rising so fast in his weary eyes. Part of the   Old Stories   cycle of poems A few words about the poem… Exploring Transient Joy and Enduring Sorrow | Melancholy Poems   "The Hero," from the series “Melancholy Poems,” is a poignant exploration of human emotions, particularly the contrast between the ephemeral joys brought by external heroes and the enduring pain of personal loss. The speaker reminisces the arrival of a heroic figure, adorned with laurels. This hero symbolizes not only the fleeting happiness he brings to the narrator’s lover but also the overwhelming presence he casts upon the speaker's world.   The poem vividly portrays the hero's impact on the speaker and his beloved, emphasizing the transformative power he wields. The imagery of "brave new dreams" and being "dazzled by his light" conveys the enchantment and awe inspired by this figure. The hero is elevated to a godlike status, towering above mortals and seemingly capable of banishing all sorrows with a mere gesture.   However, beneath this glorious facade lies a poignant truth—the hero, despite his grandeur, is ultimately mortal. As the poem unfolds, the hero's inevitable decline becomes evident, mirroring the transient nature of human relationships. The speaker reflects on his inability to compete with such a figure, recognizing his mortality in contrast to the hero's seemingly eternal presence.   The poem concludes with a sombre revelation as the hero begins to lose his lustre. Despite the comforting embrace shared with the beloved, there is a subtle hint of disillusionment in the hero's eyes, suggesting a realization of his limitations. This moment of vulnerability is a stark reminder of the fragility inherent in all forms of heroism and the transient nature of worldly triumphs.   Overall, "The Hero" offers a nuanced exploration of love, loss, and the allure of heroism. Through its evocative imagery and poignant narrative, the poem invites readers to contemplate the complexities of human relationships and the fleeting nature of external sources of happiness.

Passionate Embrace: Evoking Erotic Poetry I live inside her twisted mind. There was no choice. She left the door ajar and casually asked me to come in— youth can be so careless these days. At night, listening to the lullabies of a lovelorn owl, we watch the moonrise in the waters of the river past her door. First-time riffs, trip on the wings of ravens counting the banjos in the Poplar Valley. I consume her thoughts relentlessly. In vain, she shrieks and curses me to leave her but we both know I’m an obsessive songsmith with an agenda: I want to tune that off-key flute she’s been hiding inside her bedroom since the day she turned sixteen—she knows I’m her only lover, and I will not abide by her kind of angry music. Part of the   mosaics   cycle of poems A few words about the poem…   The Obsessive Songsmith | A Toxic Love Poem  In the surreal poem "I Will Always be her Lover," from the series Toxic Love, the narrator delves into the intricacies of a relationship existing within the realms of a twisted mind. The portrayal of the narrator's presence within the subject's consciousness is marked by a certain inevitability, a consequence of the door left ajar and a casual invitation that reflects the carelessness of youth.   The nocturnal setting, accompanied by the melancholic serenade of a lovelorn owl and the observation of the moonrise over the river, adds a layer of atmospheric depth to the narrative. The introduction of first-time riffs and the imagery of ravens counting banjos in the Poplar Valley evoke a sense of surrealism, contributing to the overall dreamlike quality of the poem.   The narrator's relentless consumption of the subject's thoughts, highlights a certain possessiveness that goes beyond mere infatuation and despite the subject's futile attempts to repel his presence, the narrator sees himself as an obsessive songsmith with a distinct agenda. The agenda however is only revealed as a metaphor in the next stanza leaving the reader to bring his own fantasies to the tale.   The central motif revolves around the desire to tune the off-key flute concealed within the subject's bedroom since her sixteenth year. This metaphorical instrument may represent a part of her identity or emotions that have been hidden or suppressed. The narrator asserts himself as her exclusive lover, unwilling to tolerate the discordant notes of her "angry music."