Who rules the master,
Who serves the slave?
Who tries to linger?
Who tries to leave?
Whose is the victory
When triumphs are done?
The Circus is empty,
the Forum forlorn.
Whose hero's boat
Hoists a black sail?
Whose bones are found
At Choisin Reservoir?
Why do we sigh,
Why do we mourn?
The evening sky
Shall take us all home.
Yet, as the sunset fades,
Friendships ascend:
Fragile words compass
Time without end.
2008
Plenty of food for reflection here Will. Bittersweet indeed, and flowingly penned. t xx
Time puts things in their right place. A balanced classic style. Art and friendship prevail. Great poem, Will.
Thought provoking. I like these lines in particular: “The evening sky/ Shall take us all home.” and “Fragile words compass/ Time without end.” You use repetition and contrast in an effective way. The Circus metaphor fits the message superbly. I am not familiar with “Choisin’ unless it is French.
The last two stanzas are really exceptional. Beautiful work. I believe that we share some of the same sunset thoughts. Take care. Warm regards, Sandra
the classic Barber style if I must confess...always enjoyable. a sharp wit and tight lines, dancing meter with elevated rhyme. topped off with a proposition...of deep introspection. excellent read, Will. -Tailor
The title speaks to our humble humanity; the final lines to the promise of forever. True friendship transcends every constraint. Thank you, my friend : ]
This poem has not been translated into any other language yet.
I would like to translate this poem
Dear Will, Who, indeed........we raise our voices in songs of peace and clarity....well-said, my friend..... Love, D.