Enter Othello, Desdemona & Others Poem by Michael Pruchnicki

Iago is a man wronged by the Moor
of Venice - 'Good Michael Cassio,
look you to the guard tonight.'

Michael Cassio has been promoted
over a professional soldier; a man
who has risen from the lowest ranks
and is within reach of the top
when he is passed over.

Desdemona wrongs her father
when she runs off in the night
to wed a stranger, however
distinguished he may be -
inconceivable for a lady
of a great family.

Iago is the honest creature
who sees and knows more
than he reveals to Othello -
the trap springs shut
and Othello does his duty
as an honor bound soldier
must no matter the outcome.

We leave the playhouse
awestruck by the drama
of jealousy in love.