Prince Of Camelot Poem by Walterrean Salley

(A Uniquely Tragic Love Story)

‘Twas 1960, a brisk autumn morn,
At 12: 22, a lad was born.
America doted as nations looked on.
His parents proudly called him John.

In ’63, a grave event—
A tragic moment to lament:
The brave toddler seized our heart,
Saluting his dad, who would depart.

A maternal son and paternal heir,
The prince was handsome and so fair.
But the story reveals a telling plot:
The child was destined for Camelot.

Dashing, bold, generous, kind—
Gifted, and proficient in mind.
The boy grew to become a man—
A leader indeed ‘mongst his clan.

This ardent brother and darling son
Was notably admired by everyone.
The world saw him come and go.
His private life, we sought to know.

His modesty the masses forbade.
His giving was “bar-accolade.”
His disposition was truly rare
That with the poor he’d dare to share.

Then John met Carolyn of his dreams,
Their union forged a loving team.
Together they strove for new heights,
Expecting a future that was bright.

But July 16 of ninety-nine,
Calamity forced a nation to pine.
America’s stately-passionate plea,
Her dashing son fell prey to the sea.

For the prince and princess (his lot) ,
Time was brief at Camelot.
Youth silenced—a misfortune to be.
‘’Twas such a painful tragedy.

Farewell to the prince and his bride,
Embraced of the sea, borne by the tide.
Life is short, we’re often reminded—
Legacies lost and dreams undermined.

But we will remember, more than not,
The gifted young man, the tiny tot,
The ruddy lad, and for the plot—
The handsome young Prince of Camelot.

© July 1999