The Lady And The Parasol 3 (Cariatid) Poem by John Rickell

The drowsy day and sleeping streets
processing jacarandas and futile shade
another glass to quench a thirst
which would not subside;
the sun was high beneath the pines
I sat and thought one thought
I think she knew.
I could not hide my praise
sun glasses laid aside,
to hide behind a darkened lens
and wine red glass was not polite.
I wanted her to know.

She drew her robe about her breasts
innocent gesture but not to conceal
she knew the worth of ivory flesh
saw my hands clasped tight.
So the day progressed
as yesterday when first we met,
if ten paces is a meeting.
Her graceful neck long and strong
she stood straight backed
robe to her feet, so out of place,
I did not notice, it looked so right
said goodbye (not au revoir?) .

There were sights to see
that were my intent.
So through the blazing streets I strolled,
to admire this thing of beauty.
Baskets on their heads they stood
but only three! ...In fear I turned
panic on my mind, for hours I ran,
so it seemed, terror at my soul
it could not be.... it cannot be!

The square was as before
the table too, cypress shade,
a parasol neat and folded
an empty glass, a lipstick stain,
the chair set back.....
an echo of sandaledfeet....
dancing on the pavement
and she was gone.....
Before I left for home I went again,
long shadows casting gloom,
of the four, which was she?
I could not tell.....
the sun in my eyes,
tears about my cheeks.