The Meaning Of A Trait Poem by Jonathan Howard

I am now traced persistently,
Yet all I do is hide;
And though I fl ee, I know there is
Nobody on my side:
I know that at this time the Bell does chime,
For I must gain my pride.

I know that all of it has changed –
And utterly at that;
A beauty – terrible – was born,
‘Twas welcomed on the mat:
It entered meekly the embrace of Brav’ry,
And in its arms it sat.

A noble and a forceful trait,
Unwillingly declined;
Will obligate my heart and soul
To always stay behind:
And though I know that it will all be so,
I truly do not mind.

(Spring 2005.)