A harbinger of woe— a chilling knock was heard at noon on her father’s door. Shadows fell across the land like the wrath of a gruesome god, a giant stain on the scorching sun. Birds stopped their singing, men and vipers looked for shelter and only the drumming of his horse's hooves echoed in the deserted streets and lanes. People glimpsed his scythe and ran, fathers locked and bolted all the doors and mothers hid their maiden daughters. On 'The Harvest of the Souls' day the nether master rode into the town to demand his rightful tithe. Part of the cycle of poems thirteen silk verses A few words about the poem… The Harvest of the Souls – The Fusion of Two Cultural Threads – Cyprus Poems The death and grief poem from the cycle Thirteen Silk Verses within the collection of Cyprus Poems, creates a contemplative fusion of two distinct cultural strands, bearing witness to both the echoes of medieval Europe's power dynamics and the enigmatic threads of Greek mythology. Each strand, intricate in its influence, weaves a narrative that resonates through time.   In the tapestry of medieval Europe, the echoes of the past reverberate in the figure of the "Lord of the Manor." An emblem of patriarchal authority, this lord held a chilling privilege: the right to claim a newlywed bride's virginity on her wedding night. The spectre of this entitlement cast a long shadow over young women's lives, shrouding their hopes and dreams in a veil of fear. The pervasive dread of being consigned to a fate chosen by another, a fate devoid of agency or desire, permeated their existence. This societal construct, while veiled in the cloak of tradition, lay bare the vulnerability of women within a system where their autonomy was secondary.   Simultaneously, the poem’s tapestry is interwoven with threads from the realm of Greek mythology, where Hades, the inscrutable Lord of the Underworld, held dominion over souls and desires. This mythological undercurrent invokes the age-old myth of Persephone, a maiden whose fate was irrevocably intertwined with the cycles of life and death. Just as Hades could pluck Persephone from the world above, “The Harvest of the Souls” paints a chilling picture of his arrival, unbidden and relentless. The footfalls of his horse reverberate through once-bustling streets, now deserted in fear, as he exercises his right to claim the young and the pure. The poem tantalisingly blurs the line between myth and reality, inviting readers to navigate the labyrinthine corridors of interpretation.   As dawn gives way to dusk, the poem captures the palpable fear that once clung to the air in medieval chambers and ancient myths alike. It is a mournful ballad of women’s voices stifled and desires extinguished, a reminder that the footprints of history often leave indelible marks upon the landscape of human experience. And yet, it is also a reflection of the enduring power of storytelling to illuminate the shadows of the past, to give voice to those who once whispered in the darkness.   In this symphony of cultural influences, this coming-of-age poem is a testament to the enduring threads that bind myth to reality, history to imagination. The poem beckons us to unravel its layers, to peer into the kaleidoscope of time, and to reflect upon the haunting echoes that linger between the lines of myth and memory. It serves as a reminder that while the historical contexts may change, the perennial struggles and aspirations of humanity remain eternally entwined.   Analysis of the Themes in the Poem   “The Harvest of the Souls” delves into the themes of authority and submission, fear, and the loss of autonomy. These thematic elements echo through the medieval social dynamics as well as the mythological landscape, creating a resonant blend that explores the human cost of patriarchal control and supernatural power alike.   Analysis of the Verse   The poem’s structure captures a sombre rhythm that amplifies the subject matter. With its steady progression, the verse reflects the relentless approach of the harbinger, underscoring the inevitability of fate and the coldness of the claims imposed on the innocent.   Analysis of the Symbolism   The scythe and the shadow cast by the harbinger emerge as primary symbols of death and control. These symbols serve as both literal and figurative representations of the powers—mortal and divine—that dictate the fates of young women within the cultural boundaries that define them.   Main Poetic Imagery   The poem’s imagery is richly textured, particularly in its portrayal of the deserted streets, the darkened sky, and the looming figure of the horseman. These elements vividly convey the dread and helplessness that encapsulate the narrative.   Religious Symbolism Impact   The religious undertones in the harbinger’s role connect to the eternal motif of soul-harvesting, drawing parallels with medieval conceptions of sin and judgment. The blending of such motifs with mythological references suggests an inescapable cycle where innocence is repeatedly claimed by forces beyond human understanding.

I whispered: 'There are many kinds of oceans between us I know but come'; and you came to the forest three sighs before sunrise. In the shade of an acacia tree with newborn blossom on your breasts and blushing leaves weaving I carved my name on your spine— red the sun shimmered in a flask— dawn and the tree began to bloom. My Morning Star, the white flower in the meadow the pristine cove and the fragile sand the ease of dusk in summertime; and I, the northern breeze at noon the young sea exuberant and new always rushing back to your timid shoreline. Lullaby of wounded dawn, now a name on a marble tree the scent of frankincense burning in the censer the yellow lantern lit at midnight; and I, alone in the acacia forest mourning the day without a sunset. Part of the cycle of poems thirteen silk verses A few words about the poem… A Tapestry of Love, Loss, Death, and Grief – from the Collection Cyprus Poems In Three Sighs Before Sunrise, a piece within the Cyprus Poems collection and the cycle Thirteen Silk Verses, the themes of love, loss, and the profound impact of young romance unfold within the haunting landscape of an acacia forest. This acacia grove, symbolising a refuge for the young couple, emerges as a place where their short-lived happiness blossoms in defiance of social expectations and boundaries. The poem’s narrative moves fluidly from love's awakening to the desolate aftermath of loss, echoing a bittersweet journey that speaks to universal human emotions—hope, longing, and grief—captured within the delicate framework of a tragic young love.   The lovers’ first encounter is wrapped in an intimate exchange under the acacias, whose "newborn blossom" seems to mirror the tenderness and innocence of their affection. They meet "three sighs before sunrise," a phrase both evocative of an emotional prelude and suggestive of their connection before the awakening light. In this moment, the narrator’s carving of his name along her spine becomes a gesture of lasting affection, an act of permanence and possession, asserting their bond in defiance of a world they know cannot accept it. As the dawn light touches the forest, there is a sense of creation in their union, portrayed poetically as the acacia tree beginning to bloom, symbolising the fleeting vitality of their connection.   The girl is cast as a "Morning Star"—a light that guides, a beacon of hope and purity, intertwined with imagery such as the "white flower in the meadow" and "the pristine cove and fragile sand." These symbols evoke the transience of her beauty and the narrator’s adoration for her. He describes himself as "the northern breeze at noon," a force that, though powerful, can only touch her fleetingly. Their love, like the dawn, exists only in transient moments, leaving behind shadows and echoes in a timeless but frail sanctuary.   The narrative's arc reaches its solemn conclusion in the loss of the girl, marking a profound shift from innocence to sorrow, and love to grief. The acacia forest, once a place of shared love, now becomes a solitary realm for the narrator’s mourning. He returns to this forest of memories, now transformed into a place where he must face the absence that haunts him, and the stark reality of her passing. The description of her as “a name on a marble tree” symbolises her transition from living memory to a silent yet enduring presence in his life.   In the closing imagery, the censer’s frankincense and the yellow lantern burning at midnight evoke the sombre rituals of remembrance and mourning, elements that subtly suggest the impact of religious and cultural symbolism within the Cyprus Poetry tradition. The poem captures the essence of a "day without a sunset," symbolising a life caught in the eternal dusk between life and death, love and loss. It is a lyrical meditation on young love's fragility and the weight of memory, reflecting on how even the brightest bonds can be overwhelmed by fate.   Three Sighs Before Sunrise, like the other works in Cyprus Poems, invites readers into a layered and emotive journey, where love, loss, and remembrance interlace. Within this poem, an acacia forest becomes more than a setting; it transforms into a timeless place of refuge and memory, a space that resonates with themes that are simultaneously personal and universal.   Analysis of the themes in the poem   The poem explores love and loss within a youthful relationship, set against the conflict between personal emotions and social expectations. The lovers’ sanctuary in nature stands as a quiet defiance of the world beyond the forest, a space for authentic connection removed from societal judgement. The transition from love to loss highlights themes of impermanence, grief, and memory.   Analysis of the verse   The verse flows with delicate, almost dreamlike phrasing, echoing the tenderness of the couple’s experience. The poem’s early lines feature soft, rhythmic cadences, capturing the gentle intimacy of the lovers’ encounters. As the narrative moves toward grief, the language becomes more solemn, mirroring the narrator’s sorrow.   Analysis of the symbolism   Nature plays a vital role in the poem’s symbolism, particularly the acacia forest and dawn light, both of which represent the innocence and beauty of young love. The carving of a name upon her spine signifies an attempt to etch permanence into a transient bond, while her transformation into "a name on a marble tree" signifies her untimely passing.   Main poetic imagery   Key images include the "newborn blossom," the "Morning Star," and the "white flower in the meadow," all of which portray the girl as a radiant but fragile presence. The final images of the censer and midnight lantern emphasise the sorrow and solemnity surrounding her memory, contrasting the bright beginning of their love.   Religious symbolism impact   Religious elements subtly underscore the poem’s reflection on mortality and remembrance, as the censer's incense and the midnight lantern evoke rituals of mourning. These symbols of reverence reinforce the emotional gravity of the narrator’s loss, suggesting the impact of religious morality within the framework of Cyprus poetry.

I glimpsed her fleeting glance through the needles of the pines and the unsullied whiteness of the sand. In the comatose August heat the stern voice of the preacher hushed the singing of the blackbirds and from the belfry, a blast of purple noise raged relentlessly inside her head. Eurydice clasped her hands praying for the rage to leave her, but she was tangled in the storyline of a minstrel’s tale. Sin and sainthood battled on the rocks until the struggle against the belfry was won. For days we sheltered from the deluge inside deserted caverns by the sea. On the thirteenth whisper of her year we quenched our growing pains until the heat began to scorch the freshness of our minds. Part of the cycle of poems thirteen silk verses A few words about the poem… A Poem of Youth, Love, and Rebellion from the collection Cyprus Poems   In "Eurydice of the Summer Dusk," another haunting verse in the “Thirteen Silk Verses” cycle from the “Cyprus Poems” collection, a surreal landscape emerges where the young couple, having surrendered to their forbidden love, face the unyielding judgment of their society. Their union unfolds against a backdrop imbued with religious fervour and cultural expectations, transforming their love into a delicate act of defiance against a world governed by reverence and restraint. Within these verses, the imagery mirrors a mythic Orphic underworld, where desire and self-discovery clash with an unspoken condemnation, creating a poignant portrayal of innocence cast into turmoil.   The poem begins with a glimpse of Eurydice's "fleeting glance" through the pine needles and "unsullied whiteness of the sand." This initial image suggests her presence as something both close and elusive, a momentary vision that is simultaneously part of and removed from reality. The narrator's perception of Eurydice as a transient vision evokes both her allure and the constraints that will inevitably pull her back into societal expectations. The connection between them is cast as fragile yet compelling, a reflection of the mystical beauty and tension that permeates the poem.   In the subsequent lines, the "comatose August heat" introduces a stifling atmosphere, intensified by the "stern voice of the preacher," whose words quash the blackbirds’ song. The oppressive nature of this environment, where even nature is silenced, suggests an almost insurmountable barrier between Eurydice and her desires. The relentless "blast of purple noise" resounding from the belfry captures the inner turmoil that grows within her—a cacophony that embodies the weight of societal judgment and the force of her inner conflict, transforming her passion into a battleground within her own soul.   Trapped in this spiritual struggle, Eurydice clutches her hands in prayer, her supplication for peace entwined with the mythic force of a "minstrel's tale." The timeless symbolism of her name, drawing from Greek mythology, lends her struggle a tragic resonance as she stands between sin and sainthood, wrestling with desires that society brands as forbidden. The image of “sin and sainthood” clashing upon the rocks underscores this internal battle, as if Eurydice herself is both heroine and captive within the verses of an ancient story. The poem’s layered narrative, blending myth and memory, heightens the surreal atmosphere, immersing the reader in an otherworldly conflict that is both deeply personal and universal.   In the poem's final verses, the young lovers retreat to deserted caverns by the sea, hiding from the judging eyes of society and seeking refuge within nature's embrace. The image of the cavern, dark and protective, provides a temporary sanctuary where the two experience their love away from society's disapproving gaze. Their seclusion is tainted by the awareness that it cannot last, a realisation foreshadowed in Eurydice’s thirteenth whisper, a haunting nod to the mythical Eurydice’s age and fate. The imagery of their “growing pains” quenched amidst the “scorching heat” portrays a love that is both intense and perilous, as if their union, forged in secrecy, is ultimately doomed to be lost to the relentless tide of societal judgment.   Through its evocative and surreal narrative, "Eurydice of the Summer Dusk" captures the couple’s journey as a delicate balance between hope and despair, innocence and forbidden desire. The poem's allusions to Eurydice and Orpheus elevate their tale to a realm of myth, where the young lovers’ fleeting moments of unity are shadowed by inevitable separation and loss. As they retreat further into their love, they simultaneously walk closer to the boundaries imposed upon them, their defiance enshrined in a society that views their union as transgression rather than triumph.   This poem, with its vivid images of secluded beaches, dim caverns, and the ever-watchful preacher, invites readers into a world where beauty and love bloom quietly, only to be threatened by the unyielding forces of cultural expectations. It becomes an enduring tale of youth’s rebellious heart set against the structured morality of an older generation, capturing the poignancy and fragility of love in a world that views it as a forbidden fire.   Analysis of the Themes in the Poem   The central themes of "Eurydice of the Summer Dusk" revolve around forbidden love, the innocence of youth, and the harsh consequences imposed by societal judgement. These themes echo throughout the poem, amplifying the emotional tension and exploring the timeless struggle between individual desires and collective expectations.   Analysis of the Verse   The poem's structure reflects a fluid, dreamlike cadence that mirrors the surreal quality of the lovers' experience. Imagery and metaphor create a lyrical yet melancholy tone, underscoring the tension and inevitability embedded in their love story. The verse flows like the waves that define the secluded seaside setting, interweaving nature's beauty with the lovers' doomed passion.   Analysis of the Symbolism   Symbolism plays a vital role in the poem, from the oppressive “blast of purple noise” representing societal disapproval to the “unsullied whiteness” of the sand symbolising purity and innocence at odds with harsh societal norms. Eurydice's name itself evokes mythological tragedy, suggesting that her story, much like her namesake’s, may be bound by forces beyond her control.   Main Poetic Imagery   The poem’s most striking imagery includes the fleeting glimpse through pine needles, the preacher’s voice stilling the blackbirds, and the lovers' retreat into deserted caves. Each of these images builds the poem’s atmosphere, lending it both a sense of ethereal beauty and foreboding as the lovers step further away from societal expectations.   Religious Symbolism Impact   Religious symbolism emerges in the stern voice of the preacher, whose influence suppresses even the natural world’s voice. This stern oversight embodies the watchful eye of a society defined by moral codes, casting a veil over the lovers and presenting religion as a force that both separates them and intensifies their clandestine bond. Through these elements, the poem interrogates the impact of religious morality on young love and the tensions that arise within this strict framework.

I’ve cast my crumbling journal to the winds and now only the breeze will ever know her secret; but the breeze allured by melting snowflakes has fled for shelter into the silence of the caves. Her porcelain beauty sparkles in the tunnels and a gloam lilac light embroiders thirteen silk verses on the lace of her raised gown. Soon, the deranged guard will come on his silver bike craving the stern sobriety of the winter blizzard. Violet whispers and the drunken poetry of fifteen dancing cicadas drown the furious orders of the priest. “They will die by the morning” he howls in distress to the north wind but no one will listen to his sermon. The preacher chants a canticle from his god-fearing parchments but he is too late to scold us and all the poppies burst open on the rocks with ungodly relish. Part of the cycle of poems thirteen silk verses A few words about the poem… The Enigmatic Journey of Thirteen Silk Verses - From The Collection Cyprus Poems   Amidst the enchanting and surrealist verses of "Thirteen Silk Verses," a coming-of-age poem within the "Cyprus Poems" collection, a realm of intricate emotions and imagery unfolds, woven into a tapestry of enigmatic beauty. These verses beckon the reader to a land and time where defiance and reverence intermingle, capturing a deeply religious setting where love and innocence exist under the weight of societal expectations. In a world where clandestine feelings are restrained by cultural and religious norms, the poem delicately presents a young couple’s tentative journey into a forbidden romance, as they meet at the sea and find themselves caught between personal longing and the rigid disapproval of a watchful society.   The poem opens with the narrator discarding his crumbling journal to the winds, symbolising the relinquishing of secrets and memories to the elements, as if to protect them from society’s critical gaze. Only the breeze holds her secret now, carrying whispered affections into the silence of hidden caves. These same caves, sheltering what society cannot see, become a sanctuary for the young couple's budding love. Her porcelain beauty, glowing within the dim, lilac-lit tunnels, imbues her with an ethereal presence as "thirteen silk verses" are embroidered onto the lace of her gown, creating a fragile yet profound image of youthful innocence on the edge of discovery. This whispered intimacy, captured in the poem, evokes the hushed and restrained nature of their love, conveyed as a silent rebellion against societal constraints.   As the snowflakes yield, the breeze becomes the silent guardian of whispered secrets, carrying them through ethereal corridors of time. In this cryptic ballet, a porcelain beauty graces dimly lit tunnels, her gown transformed into a canvas that lilac light adorns with verses spun from silk. Violet whispers rise, a haunting echo matched only by the mysterious melodies of dancing cicadas. Here, within the symphony of nature, the priest's commands wane, his presence dissolving like mist in the wind. Instead, red poppies burst forth on the rocks, a vibrant testament to defiance, as the human spirit embraces resilience with unyielding fervour.   Nature itself seems to defy the rigid moral codes, as cicadas and wild poppies rise in subtle rebellion against the fury of the preacher and the priest, whose attempts to control the couple’s burgeoning love go unanswered. In one striking scene, the priest’s furious commands are drowned out by the cicadas’ song, while the guard, arriving “on his silver bike,” is likened to the winter blizzard, a cold and unrelenting force intent on quashing their intimacy. But nature—lush and unapologetic—asserts its own beauty and life, a silent but vibrant reminder that love, like the poppies, will bloom despite all obstacles.   Beyond the tapestry of words lies an intricate puzzle, a dance of interpretations waiting to be discovered. The verses, seemingly distant from reality, reflect a mirror upon which one's own journey of defiance and strength is cast. A reflection of whispered desires and concealed intentions, this series dances on the edge of understanding, a labyrinth where the mystique is an integral player.   "Thirteen Silk Verses" is a celebration of human intricacies, an exploration of beauty that is as elusive as it is alluring. Through its whispers and secrets, it becomes a riddle to decipher and a journey that captivates the curious. The poem beckons, a siren's call into the depths of the unknown, where defiance and beauty intertwine, and interpretations waver like shadows in the mist. The sea, the breeze, the caves, and even the wild poppies in bloom become accomplices in this secret romance, embodying a gentle rebellion that defines the collection “Cyprus Poems” in its timeless, understated beauty.   Analysis of the Themes in the Poem   "Thirteen Silk Verses" traverses themes of forbidden love, innocence, and defiance against societal expectations. This young couple's love, expressed through glances and whispered secrets, is set against the backdrop of a conservative society, which imposes a strict moral code. Within this framework, the poem examines the tension between personal desire and communal judgment. The notion of innocence intertwined with rebellion permeates the verse, as the couple’s love is portrayed as both pure and defiant. Their feelings, intimate and tender, are sheltered within the natural world, suggesting a deep bond with nature that transcends human law and mirrors the beauty of unspoken, restrained affection.   Analysis of the Verse   The poem employs free verse, allowing each line to flow organically, echoing the unrestrained nature of the protagonists' feelings. The stanza breaks create pauses that mirror moments of tension and reflection, while the verse structure captures a sense of movement and subtlety. This fluid form is interwoven with evocative imagery and symbolic references that invite the reader to linger on each moment of secret longing. The rhythm in the verse captures the quiet rebellion against societal constraints, using shifts in pacing to underscore the oscillation between secrecy and defiance, embodying the very nature of the protagonists’ connection.   Analysis of the Symbolism   Symbolism plays a vital role, adding layers to the poem’s narrative of hidden love and defiance. The journal cast to the wind reflects the narrator’s decision to release control, entrusting memories to nature as if in tacit defiance of human judgment. The “breeze” itself becomes a carrier of secrets, guiding their story to the hidden “caves,” which serve as a metaphor for both sanctuary and the unspoken realm of their love. Other symbols, such as snowflakes and cicadas, represent fleeting moments and the resilience of natural life, while the “silver bike” of the guard symbolizes societal oppression, metallic and cold, in stark contrast to the warm, organic imagery of the couple’s surroundings. Each element is carefully selected to contrast society’s constraints with the organic beauty of nature and love.   Main Poetic Imagery   The poem’s imagery envelops readers in a world of hidden intimacy and youthful longing, with recurrent images of light and shadow. The portrayal of “thirteen silk verses” embroidered on the lace of her gown invites the reader to visualise her innocence and beauty as tangible, woven into the very fabric of the scene. Lilac light casts an ethereal glow, creating an almost magical aura around the young woman and evoking a surreal atmosphere that distances their love from the harshness of reality. The natural imagery of violets, cicadas, and wild poppies bursting on the rocks further imbues the scene with life and colour, grounding the poem in the earthy, tactile world even as the couple’s emotions transcend the physical.   Religious Symbolism Impact   Religious symbolism is woven into the poem to highlight the clash between personal feeling and societal expectation. The preacher, representative of moral authority, chants from "god-fearing parchments," embodying the institutional force against which the young lovers rebel. This symbolism intensifies as the preacher’s stern voice fades into the background, overpowered by cicadas and natural sounds that reflect the resilience of nature and love. The use of “poppies bursting open” symbolises the triumph of beauty over constraint, the force of life overpowering suppression. Through this religious symbolism, "Thirteen Silk Verses" captures the tension between orthodox values and human emotion, while ultimately aligning the lovers with the natural world’s unyielding beauty and strength.

I. clandestine smiles and glances meander to the little cinema and from its tiny yellow kiosk they buy a dream and tickets for a shilling tonight, their night seems so certain and their tomorrow's half-whispered II. her white ribbons and her scent the modesty of her startled dawn her silver cross and bracelets mimosa blossom and yellow sands cyclamens and a sun-drenched valley cerulean seas and the smell of brine “you” she whispers in the moment of her timid sunrise, beyond the words of pious priests and sombre masters Part of the cycle of poems Thirteen Silk Verses A few words about the poem… A Shilling for a Dream – Cyprus Poems In "A Shilling for a Dream," from the cycle "Thirteen Silk Verses," the youthful romance between a boy and a girl unfolds with a delicate charm. The poem captures their early affection within a deeply religious, traditional society, bound by moral conventions that shape every interaction. In this setting, where any premarital relationship is seen as immoral, the couple’s love remains untouched by physical closeness, expressed instead through the subtleties of glances and whispered words. The poem is imbued with an almost dreamlike quality, portraying love as pure, cautious, and innocent. Set in the small town’s local cinema, the poem reflects a shared experience and cherished pastime. A shilling buys not only a ticket but also a rare escape from the constraints that govern their young lives. Their brief encounter at the cinema gives their night a sense of “certainty” that holds a dreamlike allure, despite the constraints placed upon their love. Each moment is treasured, unspoken but quietly understood. In its simplicity, the cinema outing becomes a scene of tenderness, allowing their connection to exist in a world of imagination and potential. Themes of Innocence and Restraint In the poem, the young couple’s feelings for each other are framed within a world of restriction and modesty. Each gesture and glance carry significance as they navigate a relationship held in quiet regard, never violating the bounds of social expectation. This sense of restraint lends a dignified purity to their love, a connection experienced in small, meaningful exchanges. Their moments together are marked by an innocence that reflects the social codes of their time and place, allowing their affection to remain unspoiled by external pressures or physicality. The cinema serves as a space where they can be alone together, if only for a short while. Within this setting, the limitations on their love become intertwined with the world of fantasy that cinema itself represents, a brief, protected haven where dreams and emotions are allowed to grow quietly. The couple’s connection, though never physical, is rich with tender undercurrents, conveyed through the restrained language of unspoken affection. Imagery and Symbolism The poem’s title, " A Shilling for a Dream," symbolises the modest cost of moments that feel priceless to the young couple. Their experience, though ordinary, becomes a treasured escape, symbolising the purity and innocence of their young love. The phrase “clandestine smiles and glances” reflects the subtlety of their connection, while the image of “her white ribbons” and “silver cross and bracelets” places her within a world of innocence and grace. This symbolic language allows the poem to communicate a quiet yearning that is unspoken but deeply felt. The references to nature within the poem, such as “mimosa blossom” and “yellow sands,” draw on the beauty and tranquillity of their surroundings, linking their love to the landscape that frames their lives. The simplicity of these images reflects the purity of their relationship, and the language itself creates a pastoral backdrop that enhances the sense of innocence and timelessness. These natural images evoke the lush, sunlit landscape of Cyprus, grounding their love in a space both private and shared. Cultural and Religious Context The poem’s cultural setting, steeped in religious and social conservatism, serves as both a framework and a barrier for the young couple’s affection. The presence of “pious priests” and “sombre masters” implies the watchful eyes that govern every action, ensuring that moral codes are upheld. This environment defines the boundaries of their relationship, where love remains chaste and contained. The poem does not question these restrictions but instead reveals the quiet beauty that can arise within them, portraying a relationship that grows in the shadows, unseen and unacknowledged by those around them. Their love, though small in expression, carries an almost sacred reverence, one that exists within the moral parameters of their society. By depicting their love within these boundaries, the poem presents an innocent affection untouched by external desire, suggesting a form of love that is deeply spiritual, even divine in its restraint. Main Poetic Imagery The girl’s “white ribbons” and the “modesty of her startled dawn” evoke her purity and innocence. Her whisper of “you” captures a deeply personal yet modest confession, suggesting an affection unspoiled by words. Her silence carries an honesty that resonates with the careful language of their society, where love is seldom spoken aloud and must remain shrouded in modesty. This restrained expression becomes a defining element of their love, endowing it with a profound depth that might have been lost in a less restrictive environment. By ending on the quiet whisper of “you,” the poem conveys a love that finds its expression in the unspoken, a private, precious affection shielded by the piety and modesty of a religious world. The poem captures the essence of an unconsummated love—a love that remains untouched, existing in the fragile beauty of a shared dream that remains theirs alone. As a part of Cyprus Poems, "A Shilling for a Dream" reflects the experiences of young love in a past Cyprus, where moral strictness shapes the emotions of those in its midst. The poem offers a poignant look at the nuances of Cyprus poetry, where innocence and restraint meet in the tender exchanges of a young couple. Set in a world where love is expressed in glances and whispered words, the poem   becomes a tender exploration of youth, innocence, and unspoken connection that defines "Cyprus Poems" in its timeless, understated beauty.

Often, I go back to that little street with its lime-washed high walls and to the silence of its olive groves and acacia trees. The frail priest in his withered cassock still whimpers through humble prayers and painted rituals, hankering for the day he called us to the garden. Our faith was then a dawn that never was. The sacred Book of Hymns and Canticles is now torn and all the ancient deities are back with an unholy vengeance. Each day at four in the afternoon, when tired swallows quenched their thirst on the day's memories and the teenage fancy of a spoilt only child took comfort in thoughts of her scented lace, her father brought her to the sea in a euphony of thirteen sweetly singing violins. I watch her – she is so beautiful. In the solitude of a quiet cave, the carefree child sits by the cliffs with seaweed and foam between her summer-tinted thighs, murmuring newborn tales to gulls and bashful seashells. At the darkling of the day, she gathers marigolds in her mother’s garden. She has a sprig of rosemary in her hair and on her breasts, she has the scent of lavender. A shy night bird sings outside her bedroom window and fifteen pampered mandolins in love, softly lull the girl to sleep. Part of the cycle of poems thirteen silk verses A few words about the poem… An Enchanting Coming-of-Age Tale | The Cyprus Poems Collection   In “Pampered Mandolins,” one of the works from the cycle “Thirteen Silk Verses,” the gentle stirrings of innocent young love emerge within a framework that subtly hints at a deeper, unspoken sorrow. This opening poem in the “Cyprus Poems” collection, capturing early feelings of attraction, envelops readers in an atmosphere steeped in the distinct sounds and landscapes of Cyprus Poetry. The narrative floats across familiar echoes of the past, painted with delicate descriptions of acacia trees, olive groves, and lime-washed walls. Here, the purity of youthful feelings finds shelter, undisturbed by the dark shadows that will later cloud these bright memories.   The poem’s introductory lines evoke a serene and timeless backdrop as the protagonist revisits a small street that holds the charm of childhood simplicity. This street, with its high, whitewashed walls and enduring silence, forms a refuge for the characters, especially for the girl—a “much loved child” who embodies innocence and beauty. Her sheltered, young presence evokes the sweetness of first love, and her femininity, encapsulated by scents of lavender, basil, and marigolds, adds an intoxicating sensory quality to the poem. Each detail aligns with the wistful nature of coming-of-age poems, where love is pure and unfettered, and where Cyprus’s ancient traditions and landscapes meld seamlessly with the narrative.   The symbolic imagery in this poem, especially the “pampered mandolins” that soothe the girl to sleep, hints at the delicate balance between fragility and hope. The mandolins, instruments with a melodic, tender sound, become a metaphor for the gentle, nurturing world surrounding her. These sounds suggest a world untouched by the realities of life and death, offering her a lullaby that reflects the gentleness of her current world. The “Cyprus Poetry” collection employs the soft allure of music as an emotional device, imparting both warmth and depth to this depiction of young love.   Yet, despite the gentle lull of mandolins and the soothing comfort of familiar landscapes, the is more than an idyllic memory; it also subtly layers in religious symbolism. The frail priest, garbed in a worn cassock, recites “humble prayers and painted rituals,” portraying the innocence and simplicity of faith in childhood. However, this faith is “a dawn that never was,” a phrase that evokes the idea of an unrealized hope or belief. It introduces a small, almost imperceptible shadow into the poem, mirroring the innocence of the protagonists who remain blissfully unaware of the tragedy that awaits them. As a result, the poem’s religious undertones provide a poignant contrast between the innocence of their love and the unyielding force of destiny.   The repetition of the phrase thirteen and fifteen also offers layers of meaning that connect the protagonists to the cyclical nature of life and death. For example, “the fifteen pampered mandolins in love” appear as metaphorical embellishments that intertwine the musical language of Cyprus Poems with the life stages of the young couple. The collection “Cyprus Poetry” frequently uses such devices to infuse narratives with depth, allowing the reader to sense, without explicit detail, the innocence of the protagonists and the unspoken tragedy on the horizon.   From a symbolic standpoint, nature in this poem acts as a mirror to the characters” emotions and experiences. The acacia and olive trees, often emblematic of endurance, envelop the young couple in a protective cocoon of tradition and rootedness. The swallows, quenching their “thirst on the day’s memories,” echo the fleeting quality of youth and innocence, both cherished yet vulnerable to time. In these “Cyprus Poems,” nature frequently echoes human emotions, drawing a line between the serene beauty of the landscape and the untouched innocence of the young girl and her admirer. Here, “Pampered Mandolins” reveals how both human lives and nature’s rhythm coalesce in an expression of pure, untainted affection, where time momentarily suspends the eventual tragedy.   The poet invokes the timeless essence of death poems as well. Yet, unlike traditional poems of death, where sorrow is at the forefront, here it lingers beneath the surface, enhancing the poignancy of the protagonists” love. This gentle presence of foreshadowing elevates the poem’s power, setting it apart within the collection of Cyprus Poems, where even the seemingly innocent beginnings of love cannot entirely evade the threads of fate.   Analysis of Themes   The poem deftly explores themes of innocence, nature, love, and destiny. The innocence of young love is presented in a way that resonates with the universal experience of first affection, a feeling pure and unsullied by life’s eventual hardships. Nature serves as a silent companion to this love, reflecting and sheltering it while underscoring its fragility. The theme of destiny is subtly woven throughout, hinting at the inevitability that lies beyond the poem’s gentle imagery.   Analysis of the Verse   The poem’s structure employs soft, flowing lines that echo the tenderness of the feelings depicted. Each verse acts as a subtle layer, with imagery that builds upon itself, evoking a soft but steady rhythm that reflects the sound of the mandolins and violins. This rhythm draws the reader into a state of quiet nostalgia, heightening the effect of each sensory detail.   Analysis of the Symbolism   "Pampered Mandolins” is rich in symbolic elements. The mandolins and violins, numbers thirteen and fifteen, and references to lavender, basil, and marigolds all contribute layers of meaning. They suggest a preserved innocence and purity, with nature and music acting as custodians of this fleeting state. The priest’s presence, along with the torn hymn book, signals a fragile faith that contrasts with the stability of young love, setting up an underlying tension between innocence and the foreshadowed loss.   Main Poetic Imagery   The main imagery draws on sensory descriptions that elevate the everyday into the poetic. Scenes of the girl by the sea, the aromatic herbs in her hair, and the marigolds she gathers resonate with traditional Cypriot life. The visual contrast between her colourful, carefree existence and the dim undercurrent of fate strengthens the poem’s depth, creating a vivid emotional landscape.   Religious Symbolism Impact   The frail priest and the references to ancient hymns subtly evoke the religious landscape of Cyprus. This symbolism contributes a sense of timelessness, suggesting that even in youth, life is intertwined with ritual, faith, and the inevitability of change. The priest’s prayers and torn hymn book foreshadow a sense of lost innocence, underscoring the inevitability that will later emerge as a dominant theme in the “Thirteen Silk Verses” cycle.

A lead-painted sky. A lead-painted sun. A lead-painted life. Death came to the town on a summer's day at noon and now she lies by the river ready to begin her journey to the World of Gloom. With a drachma on her lips, she sets sail across the water in an endless night of darkness with no stars and without a moon. Bodies with broken bones, lipless jaws and eyeless skulls float around on the water. Visions rise before her eyes of unhappy lifeless virgins, of lovers once betrayed, and of mothers and of children who had passed away too soon. At the marble gates Cerberus weeps and wails and the fearsome Lord waits with offerings of fruit and water; the child eats the fruit she drinks the Lethe Water and at last, she is laid to rest. Part of the cycle of poems thirteen silk verses A few words about the poem… Journey to the Underworld: Exploring Myth and Mortality | The Cyprus Poems In "The Underworld," part of the "Thirteen Silk Verses" within the "Cyprus Poems" collection, a landscape emerges that is saturated with echoes from Greek Mythology and the mysteries of death. Through sombre, deeply evocative verse, the poem revisits a timeless journey that merges themes of loss and finality within a mythical context. The scene is set under a "lead-painted sky" and a "lead-painted sun," a symbolic world devoid of life, colour, or warmth—a landscape where the journey of mortality unfurls into the vast and silent unknown.   This death and grief poem evokes the myth of Persephone, imbuing it with the timeless sense of a journey into the unknown. As the girl lies "by the river," ready to cross into the "World of Gloom," the classical symbols of transition from life to death appear: she holds a drachma on her lips, a coin for the ferryman. This age-old gesture is steeped in ancient tradition, creating a palpable link between the present scene and the mythological underpinnings of the afterlife. Charon’s ferry, the traditional passage to the world beyond, becomes the vehicle through which the child embarks on her journey, echoing Greek practices of placing coins with the deceased to pay for safe passage.   The vision within "The Underworld" extends to a chilling scene where the protagonist’s path crosses broken bodies, lipless jaws, and eyeless skulls. This image forms a spectral vision of the Underworld that highlights the poem’s ties to myth. The echoes of Persephone’s myth become more distinct as the child sees figures of "unhappy lifeless virgins," "lovers once betrayed," and "mothers and children who had passed away too soon." These forms blend the eternal with the ephemeral, drawing out tales of sorrow that have accompanied humanity throughout history.   At the journey’s end, the marble gates rise, guarded by Cerberus—the three-headed beast of legend. Cerberus’s sorrowful cries blur the line between menace and melancholy, enhancing the sombre majesty of the realm beyond life. Beyond these gates waits the Lord himself, an image evoking the powerful presence of Hades, whose offerings of fruit, pomegranate, and water recall the mythological hospitality that seals the visitor’s place in the afterlife. The fruit and the Lethe Water—the river’s waters that bring forgetfulness—symbolise the severance of earthly ties, memory, and consciousness, permitting final peace.   In a chilling yet resonant closing, "The Underworld" leaves an impression of the enigmatic world where myth and mortality collide. It is a love and loss poem, drawing out the timeless qualities of human transition through haunting, spectral imagery and ancient rites. Through symbols that resonate with Greek myth, this poem adds a contemplative chapter to the "Cyprus Poems" collection, touching on the mysteries and the profound silence that lies beyond life.   Analysis of the Themes in the Poem   The central theme of "The Underworld" revolves around the transition from life to death and the journey into an unknown afterlife. Through an exploration of mortality, the poem dwells on concepts of loss and finality, layered with a portrayal of ancient customs and the mythical connotations of an afterlife. Themes of Greek mythology further deepen the narrative, invoking timeless reflections on humanity’s relationship with death.   Analysis of the Verse   The poem’s verse employs stark, unembellished language, invoking a leaden, monochromatic imagery. The repetition of "lead-painted" in the opening lines gives a rhythm of heaviness, reinforcing the gravity of the subject matter. As the verse progresses, its language becomes increasingly visual and symbolic, reaching an apex of mystery at the gates guarded by Cerberus. This form of verse, marked by steady pacing, mirrors the sombre death march toward the unknown.   Analysis of the Symbolism   "The Underworld" uses symbolism to bridge myth and mortality. The leaden sky and sun symbolise a world stripped of vitality, while the drachma, river, and broken bodies serve as stark symbols of death’s progression. The marble gates and Cerberus represent the transition between realms, with the fruit and Lethe Water symbolising the severance of earthly memories. Together, these symbols root the poem in ancient rites, drawing an unbroken thread between myth and human experience.   Main Poetic Imagery   Poetic imagery is predominantly visual, marked by lead-painted skies, skulls, and shadowed landscapes. These images create a feeling of heaviness and inevitability, leading readers through a landscape where all is muted and life has faded. The imagery of the girl surrounded by spectral figures is especially potent, connecting personal loss with universal themes of memory, betrayal, and innocence.   Religious Symbolism Impact   The religious symbolism of "The Underworld" aligns with Greek beliefs regarding death and the afterlife. The drachma, ferry, and river journey reflect a belief in death as a passage requiring sacred rites. The presence of Cerberus and the offerings from Hades tie the poem to ancient rituals of acceptance into the afterlife, emphasising the theme of transition from life’s attachments to the peace of final rest. Through these symbols, the poem reveals a reverence for ancient beliefs that resonate through modern contemplation on mortality.

our first days on earth: the taste of apples in the newborn spring, her verses —the i's and the you's in love— hibiscus blossom from her garden and I, stirred by such gifts of chastity I knelt for her she cried —no regrets— then the fury of men a summer later a fortune-teller told me "one day she will marry a songsmith" "let it be me", I begged and crossed her palm with rhyme but she laughed and told me to my face "the girl is far too young to marry thee" now my child has fled to an ancient land a new kind of love is plundering her youth astride the passions of her blushing night and Time —cruel, unrelenting— mocks me an old fool who loved in haste A few words about the poem… Iva's Song: Unveiling Subtleties in a Coming-of-Age Poem A coming-of-age poem, that traces the journey of life, employing subtle metaphors and measured language that, beneath the surface, hint at more intimate experiences. The taste of apples in the newborn spring, symbolizing innocence, carries an implicit suggestion of a first sexual encounter. Notably, Iva, a variation of Eve, adds a layer of biblical allusion, subtly aligning her character with themes of temptation and primal experiences. The act of kneeling before Iva, ostensibly a display of reverence, carries undertones of sexual proclivity, or perhaps submission and vulnerability, adding a subtle layer of intimacy to the narrative. Her cry of "no regrets" takes on a dual significance, both as a declaration of emotional fortitude and as a tacit acknowledgment of the complexities underlying relationships. The rejection of the plea to be the chosen "songsmith" introduces a stark reality, where romantic aspirations are met with a pragmatic dismissal. This refusal, devoid of embellishments or romanticized language, reflects the harshness of the situation, leaving the reader to confront the unfulfilled desires inherent in the narrative. The phrase "old fool who loved in haste" encapsulates the broader theme of the poem, subtly pointing to the folly of older individuals entangled in relationships with younger partners. The nuanced language avoids explicitness, allowing readers to draw their conclusions about the implications of age-disparate love. In conclusion, "Iva's Song" is a contemplative exploration of life, love, and the consequences of impulsive decisions, with the added layer of subtle sexual undertones. It adheres to a stylistic approach that hints rather than explicitly states, inviting readers to interpret the narrative in their own terms. This discerning poem presents a thoughtful representation of the complexities of human experience, leaving the evaluation of its value to the reader's subjective lens.

An avalanche of memories— songs, white lilies, yellow roses; my friends and welcome guests. They knock on my door we sit around the table we smoke, drink wine and we talk about you. Your laughter— the laughter of a woman-child; the smile I adored, the eyes I kissed the lips that said 'I love you'. You touched me with your words but we were so young, almost children. Frightened, I ran from you and didn't see the sadness that fell across your eyes until one day you opened our door and left so silently and without a trace. Part of the   Old Stories   cycle of poems A few words about the poem… An Analysis of “My Welcome Guests” | Melancholy Poems   In "My Welcome Guests," from the series “Melancholy Poems,” the poet delicately invites readers into a realm of reminiscence, where memories cascade like an avalanche, filling the space with echoes of songs and the fragrant presence of white lilies and yellow roses. The use of natural imagery, such as flowers, evokes a sense of nostalgia and warmth, setting the stage for the arrival of cherished companions.   As the poem unfolds, the poet portrays a gathering of friends, portrayed as "welcome guests," who arrive at the doorstep of the speaker's consciousness. Amidst the camaraderie, there is an undercurrent of introspection, hinted at by the reference to smoking, drinking wine, and conversing about a past love.   The focal point of the gathering is the absent presence of a beloved figure, whose laughter is likened to that of a "woman-child." This juxtaposition suggests both innocence and maturity, perhaps hinting at the complexities of the relationship shared between the speaker and this enigmatic persona.   Through tender recollections, the poet unveils the depth of their connection, recounting moments of affection symbolized by kisses and declarations of love. However, intertwined with these memories is a sense of regret and missed opportunity, as the speaker reflects on their youth and the fear that led them to flee from love's embrace.   The poem reaches its emotional zenith as the speaker confronts the stark reality of loss. The departure of the beloved, conveyed with poignant simplicity, underscores the profound impact of her absence. The silence that follows speaks volumes, leaving the speaker to grapple with the weight of what has been left unsaid and undone.   In conclusion, "My Welcome Guests" navigates the terrain of memory and emotion with grace and introspection. Through its evocative imagery and understated language, the poem invites readers to ponder the timeless themes of love, loss, and the enduring echoes of the past.

At the crossroads of the world the sacred whore is lost in dreams of cinnamon and purple nights. Who are you? the rising moon commands. I am the harlot of the world. For so many perfumed nights I slept with emperors and kings but all the time I dreamt of Eden. My sainted master took me to his bed ever since I was a child. His velvet touch cooled my mind and in the beginning his pious chants set my flesh alight. Now I despise them all! The emperors, the kings, the sultans their salivating mouths and their nauseating tongues on my slender thighs. But I'm the universal whore. I'm bought, I'm sold, I have no choice. All my ships have perished. Fires are dancing on the waters and even the Mermaid has drowned. The emperor has fled to the caves for shelter. The ancient gate is shattered and the golden eagle pierced through the heart lies breathless at the barricades. The Velvet Lord has turned to marble and a green wind is soaring from the east. He defiles me and I cry in ecstasy and pain. The day of the broken moon is dawning yet each day we wait for the miracle. Our beloved emperor will soon wake— the prophets have seen it in the stars. A few words about the poem…   Byzantine Tales: The Shifting Identity of Istanbul   "The Universal Harlot," a compelling poem, explores the intricate history of Istanbul, formerly known as Constantinople or Istanbul This city, bridging Europe and Asia, has experienced countless transformations, influenced by its conquerors and their respective faiths. Through evocative imagery and poignant metaphors, the poem captures the essence of a metropolis perpetually in flux. This essay delves into these "Byzantine Tales," shedding light on Istanbul's multifaceted identity shaped by war, religion, and cultural evolution.   At the heart of the poem lies Istanbul, depicted as a "sacred whore" lost in dreams of "cinnamon and purple nights." This portrayal reflects the city's storied past, where sacred and secular have continually intertwined. The city's identity has been repeatedly redefined by the rulers and cultures that have sought to control it. The moon's inquiry, "Who are you?" underscores the city's existential quest for self-definition amidst the myriad forces shaping its destiny.   The speaker's declaration as "the harlot of the world" who has "slept with emperors and kings" yet dreams of Eden, encapsulates the paradoxical nature of Istanbul's history. This city, a coveted prize for many empires, has been both venerated and violated, its character shifting to mirror the ambitions of its conquerors. These "Byzantine Tales" highlight the city's role as a hub of power and sanctity, continuously reimagined by those who wield control.   The poem transitions to a tone of disillusionment, as the speaker laments the "salivating mouths" and "nauseating tongues" of emperors, kings, and sultans. This bitterness reflects the city's tumultuous past, marked by invasions and power struggles. Each new ruler imposed their vision upon Istanbul, often at the expense of its original character. The speaker's disdain for these figures mirrors the city's own weariness from being a battleground of conflicting desires and ideologies.   The imagery of "perished ships" and "fires dancing on the waters" evokes the many sieges and naval battles that have defined Istanbul's history. These lines conjure scenes of destruction and rebirth, emphasizing the city's resilience in the face of relentless turmoil. The mention of the drowned mermaid adds a mythic quality, suggesting the loss of innocence and the inexorable pull of destiny that has shaped the city's narrative.   The emperor's flight to the caves and the shattered ancient gate symbolize the fall of Constantinople to the Ottoman Turks in 1453, a pivotal moment in the city's history. The "golden eagle pierced through the heart" poignantly represents the demise of the Byzantine Empire, marking the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter under Islamic rule. These events, central to the "Byzantine Tales," underscore the transformative impact of conquest on Istanbul's identity.   The poem's climax, with the "Velvet Lord" turning to marble and a "green wind soaring from the east," alludes to the cultural and religious shifts brought by Islamic rule. The city's fusion of Byzantine and Islamic elements creates a unique, hybrid identity. The speaker's cry of "ecstasy and pain" captures the complex emotions associated with this transformation, blending reverence and resistance.   The concluding lines, envisioning the day of the broken moon—a metaphor for Islamic half-moon emblem—and the awaited miracle, reflect the enduring hope and mysticism that permeate Istanbul's history. The anticipation of the emperor's return, prophesied by the stars, symbolizes the city's perpetual longing for renewal and redemption. These "Byzantine Tales" weave a narrative of resilience and continuity, despite the ever-changing tides of power and faith.   In "The Universal Harlot," Istanbul emerges as a city of profound historical significance, its identity sculpted by conquest and cultural amalgamation. The poem's rich imagery and layered metaphors invite readers to contemplate the enduring legacy of a city that has stood at the crossroads of empires and religions. Through these "Byzantine Tales," Istanbul's story is revealed as a testament to the complex interplay of history, power, and faith.

the moon down beats a beat on her shiny skinless drum she beats a tune with without a beat on her drum without a skin and the fairies lure a moon child to the forest with red berries don't eat the berries’ cries her father don't eat the berries’ begs her mother red juices running down on her tongue and pouting lips red juices stain her gown running down on her pale pristine gown from her toes up to her neck red red red there are stains on her gown and the child and the fairies they dance till well past midnight 'If I tell you a real secret will you keep it from your mama?' the wicked witch whispers softly to the curious child 'but be careful if you do vicious crows will peck your eyes' rampant vipers chase the child all the way onto the altar the red stains on her gown driving the serpents wild and a goblin gives the moon child twelve doughnuts soaked in honey 'don't eat the doughnuts' cries her father 'don't eat the doughnuts' begs her mother honey oozes from her mouth crumbs and sugar on her lips red paint stains the ark red paint fills the rivers red paint drowns the doves the moon down beats a beat on her shiny skinless drum she beats a tune with without a beat on her drum without a skin and the child and the witch the serpents and the goblins they dance till well past midnight then they drag her down the staircase red stains on her shroud crumbs and sugar on her lips  A few words about the poem… A coming-of-age poem: Choices and Consequences in the Realm of Fantasy In this evocative coming-of-age poem, moonbeams gracefully traverse ethereal landscapes, illuminating a mesmerizing journey—a disturbing tale of a young girl's sexual awakening. It invites us to wander through moonlit woods, where anticipation hangs in the air, and mystical creatures lurk, their presence both captivating and tinged with unease. Within whispered secrets, malevolent fairies hover, their intentions veiled in mischief. They tempt our young protagonist with forbidden crimson berries, enticing symbols of desire that dangle before her innocent gaze. Yet, as she ventures deeper into the nocturnal woods, the enigmatic presence of a wicked witch casts an alluring but cryptic spell upon her path. This poetic odyssey of innocence and awakening intertwines desires and destinies. It is part of a compelling series of poems exploring the choices we make in life and their enduring consequences. Guided by the radiant moon, our young heroine navigates each twist and turn, serving as a poignant reminder of the delicate balance between curiosity, longing, and the weight of our actions. The reader is invited to witness the dance between innocence and experience, and the evoking of a symphony of emotions. Through the poem’s lens, the moon becomes a metaphorical beacon, illuminating the labyrinthine paths we traverse in our existence. It is a tale that resonates with the timeless human condition, where desire and destiny entwine.

Reflections of my lover dancing on the frozen lake echoed every night on the walls of the grey scullery. The Ice Queen watched each pirouette and veil cast until enraged by the neon sunshine stood and speared the screen twice. Spring arrived and with her first swallow my lover's passions lay wild on the sawdust floor. She flies with white doves on the edge of a faded mirror until she embraces Snow White in a field of blood-red poppies. Holding her like the Holy Crucifix she takes her on a journey into a world of narrow fires until they shiver in the heat and scream for mercy. Enchanted by such a wondrous spectacle I anchor my yellow boat on a mound of melting ice and indulge in this daring love story. We listen to the sermons of a wise sage, and dancing to the songs of eastern troubadours we hail the return of Happy floating on a cloud of purple haze. A few words about the poem… Unveiling Societal Constructs in “Looking for Snow White” | A Coming-of-Age Poem In the realm of surrealist poetry, the coming-of-age poem "Looking for Snow White" stands as a nuanced exploration of the journey from youth to maturity, scrutinizing the societal expectations imposed on the individual. Τhis introduction endeavours to dissect the poem, delving into its surrealist elements and situating them within the broader context of surrealism in poetry. The verses commence with a vivid depiction of the poet’s lover's reflections dancing on a frozen lake, setting the stage for a narrative that unfolds in a surrealist tapestry. The frozen lake, a metaphorical stage, becomes a symbolic representation of the constraints and rigidity of societal norms. The lover's reflections echo on its surface, suggesting the repetitive nature of such expectations that reverberate through one's formative years. The Ice Queen, a fantastical figure, watches the lover's dance with a critical eye, embodying the societal gaze that scrutinizes and judges. The neon sunshine, enraged by the unconventional dance, further emphasizes the clash between individuality and the norm. This surrealist portrayal serves as a metaphor for the pressures exerted on young people to conform to expectations, even when pursuing personal passions. As the narrative progresses into spring, a season traditionally associated with renewal and growth, the lover's passions lay wild on the sawdust floor. This transition marks the tumultuous journey from adolescence to adulthood, where societal expectations clash with individual desires. The mention of a faded mirror and the embrace of Snow White in a field of blood-red poppies introduce surrealistic imagery that symbolizes the distorted reflections of self and the allure of preset ideals. The Holy Crucifix becomes a potent symbol, signalling the imposition of values on the lover's journey. The narrow fires and the plea for mercy evoke a surreal landscape of internal conflicts and the struggle to conform. The yellow boat anchored on melting ice symbolizes the fragility of existing structures and the pursuit of happiness and daring love, creating a surreal juxtaposition of stability and instability. In surrealist tradition, the poem unfolds like a dream, embracing unconventional associations and juxtapositions. The sermons of a wise sage, the songs of an eastern troubadour, and the return of Happy floating on a cloud of purple haze contribute to the dreamlike quality. The marmalade flower in the sky adds another layer of surrealism, creating a sense of the fantastical and the otherworldly. In the final moments, gratitude is expressed for Happy's cigarette, symbolizing a shared moment of rebellion and camaraderie. The poem, while navigating through surreal landscapes, ultimately reflects the resilience of individuality in the face of societal pressures. In conclusion, "Looking for Snow White" employs surrealist elements to dissect the pressures on young individuals navigating the journey from youth to maturity. The frozen lake, the Ice Queen, and the surreal imagery serve as powerful metaphors, offering a poignant commentary on the clash between personal desires and general expectations. The poem, in its surrealist tapestry, invites readers to contemplate the complexities of growing up in a world that often demands conformity.