All that's yours neatly packed, all that's mine scattered on the floor; nothing much to show for a life. You've taken all that I ever was and everything that was ever mine. The life we shared is now buried in a scrapbook you choose to leave behind. An act of kindness I thought but I die when you say history should be left between its covers and then I die a little more when you say he is waiting outside to take you home. I run to the window and watch you vanish into the darkness of the street. All you leave behind are footsteps but soon they'll be covered by fresh and you'll be gone forever from my life. I plunge into a pit of silence with no colours but shades of black and grey. I drink some more wine and stare at the the rainbow in the palm of my hand. The road to oblivion beckons and the clock ticks no more. Part of the   Old Stories   cycle of poems A few words about the poem… Unveiling the Depths of Loss and Despair | Melancholy Poems   "And the Clock Ticks No More," from the series “Melancholy Poems,” delves into the poignant aftermath of the dissolution of a relationship, portraying the emotional turmoil experienced by the speaker as they grapple with the loss and loneliness.   The poem opens with a stark image of belongings some packed and others scattered, symbolizing the separation and division of shared lives. There is a sense of resignation and bitterness in the realization that there is little to show for the life they once had together. The contrast between what is neatly packed and what is left scattered on the floor underscores the disarray and emotional chaos following the departure of the speaker's partner.   The speaker laments the loss of identity and self that comes with the departure of their loved one, feeling as though they have been stripped of everything they once were. The metaphor of the shared life being buried in a scrapbook, left behind by the departing partner, emphasizes the finality of the separation and the inability to hold onto the past.   Throughout the poem, there is a recurring motif of a ticking clock that serves as a reminder of the inevitable passage of time and the fleeting nature of life and love. As the poem progresses the ticking ceases, signifying a cessation of time and the speaker's descent into a state of emotional numbness and despair.   The speaker's memories of love and companionship are juxtaposed with the emptiness and desolation that follow their partner's departure. The imagery of watching their loved one vanish into the darkness of the street, leaving behind only footsteps soon to be covered by fresh snow, evokes a sense of finality and irrevocable loss.   As the speaker grapples with their emotions, they contemplate the road to oblivion, symbolized by the colours of the rainbow in their palm. The rainbow, typically associated with hope and renewal, takes on a more ominous significance here, suggesting a journey towards an uncertain and bleak future, if there is a future at all.   Ultimately, the poem concludes with a sense of resignation and acceptance of the inevitable. The cessation of the ticking clock represents the speaker's acceptance of their fate and their readiness to embrace the darkness that lies ahead. It is a poignant portrayal of the profound impact of loss and the struggle to find meaning and purpose in its aftermath.

A short span of happiness. I reach out and touch a memory— a glimpse from another time of a life that might once have been. Wrapped in a cocoon, I never saw the pain in your voice or the shadows dancing in your eyes. In despair, you gathered all from a life I wrecked then vanished into the arms of a sad December night. Now, mauled by regrets, I wait to hear your footsteps outside and your voice knocking on my door. Part of the   Old Stories   cycle of poems A few words about the poem… Reflections on Regret and Longing | Melancholy Poems   In A Wrecked Life from the series Melancholy Poems, the poet reflects upon the consequences of his actions on the life of another, leading to profound regret and longing for what could have been. The brevity of happiness emphasized in the opening line sets the tone for introspection and sorrow that permeates the poem.   The imagery of reaching out to touch a memory, coupled with the mention of "a glimpse from another time," evokes a sense of nostalgia and longing for a past that now seems out of reach. This nostalgia is tinged with regret as the speaker realizes the impact of their actions.   Using a metaphor, such as being "wrapped in a cocoon," suggests a state of emotional isolation or ignorance, wherein the speaker fails to recognize the pain and suffering of the person he affected. It is highlighted further by the sentence of not seeing "the pain in your voice" or "the shadows dancing in your eyes."   The despair and sorrow of the affected individual are palpable as she "gathered all from a life I wrecked" and ultimately disappeared into the solitude of a "sad December night." The mention of December adds to the melancholy atmosphere, symbolizing an ending or closure tinged with sadness.   The portrayal of the poet waiting "mauled by regrets" conveys the weight of remorse and the longing for reconciliation. The imagery of waiting to hear footsteps and a voice knocking on the door underscores the desire for redemption and the possibility of reconnecting with the person they wronged.   Overall, "A Wrecked Life" explores the themes of regret, nostalgia, and the consequences of actions. Through evocative imagery and poignant reflection, the poet invites readers to contemplate the fragility of happiness and the enduring impact of past mistakes.

My sweetest lover, daydreaming in the shade of an old aspen tree— a green world of wondrous madness. She, the purple gateway to a citadel of sin and I the Mississippi River raging between the marble pillars. I called out for Noah's Ark to sail into this cave of sinful wonder but a wise fool sneered and told me the boat has leaked for years. In search of the Scented Garden, I tethered my rusty chariot to the wings of an unbridled eagle. When I crossed the threshold, I was triumphant. 'You and I shall live in Parnassus', I sang in victory and then surrendered my sword to the hungry archway. At the peak of the sacred mountain we burned the jaded scriptures then she danced before me naked and called for my shameful head. My song was not in tune. Kronos was incandescent and my lover raged. She said, to her I was the old pretender then banished me forever beyond the garden walls. Part of the mosaics cycle of poems A few words about the poem… The Agony of Toxic Love Through Verses   The poem "The Poet's Song" delves into the surreal landscape of a tumultuous romantic relationship, encapsulating the complexities of toxic love through vivid imagery and stark symbolism.   The opening lines introduce a lover daydreaming beneath an old aspen tree, presenting a seemingly tranquil scene that swiftly transforms into a "green world of wondrous madness." This abrupt shift sets the tone for a narrative that grapples with love's deceptive nature, emphasizing the emotional turbulence within the relationship.   Symbolism plays a crucial role in conveying the power dynamics at play. The lover is described as a "purple gateway to a citadel of sin," while the poet sees himself as the Mississippi River raging between marble pillars. This imagery suggests an alluring yet potentially destructive sexual force embodied by the lover, juxtaposed with the turbulent emotions represented by the poet.   The metaphor of Noah's Ark sailing into a cave of sinful wonder introduces a sense of desperation in the pursuit of an idealized love. However, the reality check that the ark has been leaking for years serves as a poignant acknowledgement of the inherent vulnerabilities within the poet's romantic endeavours. This metaphorical leakage symbolizes the flaws in the foundation of the relationship, contributing to its eventual downfall.   In the quest for the Scented Garden, the poet attaches his rusty chariot to the wings of an unbridled eagle, portraying a desperate attempt to reach an idyllic paradise. The triumph upon crossing the threshold is short-lived as the poet surrenders his sword to the hungry archway, signifying a relinquishing of personal agency and a submission to the consuming power of love.   The burning of jaded scriptures at the peak of the sacred mountain represents liberation from societal norms. However, this newfound freedom comes at a cost as the lover, dancing naked and calling for the poet's shameful head, unveils the consequences of defying established conventions.   The surreal nature of the poem adds layers of complexity to the narrative. The juxtaposition of seemingly serene scenes with underlying chaos reflects the paradoxical nature of toxic love. The use of vivid and symbolic language creates a poignant atmosphere that heightens the poem's emotional impact.   To delve deeper into the analysis, one can consider the role of time and mythology in the narrative. The mention of Noah's Ark and Kronos incandescent adds a temporal dimension, suggesting that the consequences of toxic love are not confined to the present but have roots in biblical and mythological contexts. The incorporation of such elements enriches the thematic depth of the poem.   Furthermore, the banishment from the Scented Garden can be interpreted as a metaphor for societal exclusion or ostracism. The consequences faced by the poet for defying societal norms highlight the societal scrutiny and judgment associated with unconventional relationships. This layer of social commentary enhances the poem's relevance and invites a broader interpretation.

The poets gather at the well of broken stanzas to mourn for all the rhymes stolen by men in white suits and loaded guns. They stare at the salt lakes on the moon and hanker for the days when poems were made from dust and water. Their kaleidoscope songs are shattered at the foot of the godless mountain and all the birds died of hunger. Dead fishes float down the Mississippi to a talent show in St. Louis and the blues in New Orleans laments the ones who lost the music. My bride with green passions in her eyes and moist smiles on her breasts, lies naked with impious poets on the forest floor. 'Bad poets' decrees their Sultan of Seville. The hooded men in white suits and all the sunburnt alligators are enraged their lurid prayers fixed on my bride's smile. She is the patron saint of decadence my true goddess of divine depravity— the perfect bride for my soul of darkness. Part of the mosaics cycle of poems A few words about the poem… Navigating Societal Reflections in “The Poet's Lament” | Erotica   Within the expansive tapestry of the Mosaics Series, a new poetic offering delicately unfolds, titled 'The Poet's Lament.' This erotica poem, adorned in surreal hues, invites readers to embark on a nuanced journey through the intricate threads woven into societal reflections.   The verses of this poem act as mirrors, capturing oblique references to the broader state of society, with a particular focus on the intricate landscape of the United States. The poets, a collective voice at the well of broken stanzas, express a poignant lament for the theft of rhymes by men in white suits armed with loaded guns. These stolen verses, once crafted from the humble elements of dust and water, are mourned as the poets gaze introspectively at the salt lakes on the moon.   The kaleidoscope songs, once vibrant and harmonious, now lay shattered at the foot of the godless mountain. The imagery extends to a poignant portrayal of avian demise, where hunger claims the lives of all the birds, leaving behind a haunting silence. In this surreal world, even the mighty Mississippi River bears witness to the descent of lifeless fishes, making their way to an unusual talent show in St. Louis, serving as a stark metaphor for the commodification of creativity.   The blues in New Orleans takes up the mantle of lamentation, mourning not only the loss of music but also the void left by those who once passionately created it. The narrative then gracefully shifts to a symbolic scene where a bride, adorned with green passions in her eyes, lies exposed on the forest floor with impious poets. This decadent imagery, though cryptic, adds yet another layer to the societal critique embedded in the verses, inviting readers to interpret the symbiotic relationship between decadence and poetic expression.   The Sultan of Seville issues a decree, branding the poets as 'bad poets.' Hooded figures in white suits, alongside sunburnt alligators, become the embodiment of rage, fixated on the smile of the bride who symbolizes decadence. This echoes a certain authoritative figure, known for his distinctive pout, with supporters sharing a common disposition. The connection to such a figure adds another layer to the societal critique embedded in the verses, inviting readers to subtly ponder the interplay between power, symbolism, and societal norms.   This complex interplay of symbols and allegories unfolds with the finesse characteristic of the poet's descriptive and slightly evocative style. The authoritative and informative voice of the verses provides an objective overview of the societal critique embedded within the lines. The absence of imperative verbs or sentences allows the poem to resonate as a reflective and contemplative piece rather than a directive one.   In conclusion, 'The Poet's Lament' stands as a profound addition to the Mosaics Series. Its surreal verses offer a unique lens through which societal reflections are refracted, inviting readers to unravel the layers of meaning woven into the poetic fabric. As the poets mourn stolen rhymes, shattered songs, and the demise of music, each piece contributes to a larger commentary on the nuanced state of society, creating a mosaic of poetic expression that beckons for contemplation.

I'll always love you Sappho, my love of yesteryear. A graceless child you thought me but took my hand and loved me with a kind of love that burned. Each night, you took a little more of me and each night, I gave you more without thinking. You brushed my hair you kissed my lips you dressed me in lace and silk then took me to your bed. Like a butterfly, I fluttered. I shivered when you touched me and gasped for air; I could not breathe and begged for your mouth on my skin. I loved you Sappho a love so joyous, a love without guilt. I was drunk with your light. Now another has come into my life. A tender child of eighteen and in her love I find my youth again. I brush her hair I kiss her lips I dressed her in lace and silk then take her to our bed. She touches me and I die for her I hold her and she cries for me and everything is fresh and new. Read A Short Biography of Sappho the ancient world's greatest poet This poem is part of the collection of poems Sappho A few words about the poem… The Power of Love and the Pain of Loss - A Tribute to Sappho Sappho, the ancient Greek poetess is renowned for her passionate and lyrical poetry that explored themes of love and loss. One of her most famous works is the “Ode to Atthis” a love poem describing her relationship with her young pupil. Sappho's portrayal of her at the beginning of their relationship has been the subject of much debate and scholarly analysis.   The coming-of-age tribute to Sappho is an imagined view of the blossoming of the romantic affair between the two lovers and it serves as a testament to the enduring power of love and the pain of loss. Even though Atthis is often maligned for abandoning Sappho, the poem attempts to give her a voice to explain the breakdown of their relationship from her point of view. It is a poignant reminder of the complexities of love and the challenges that come with it.   The poem is divided into two parts. Atthis, describes her relationship with Sappho and reminisces about their intense love. Sappho's dominance appears to have been so strong that Atthis had to walk away to find someone else who would provide her with an equal partnership. The poem serves as a comment about relationships, where one partner's power and control can drive the other away, capturing the intensity of such love and the powerful emotions it evokes.

Damn propriety, I want you in my bed tonight.   Take off your long black skirt, unbutton your pristine blouse and I shall crawl inside you like a beast possessed.   My beauty queen, come with me and come with me, let's soar up to the purple sky.   Oh me, oh my, oh my! where did you learn all that? Where is that shy butterfly I loved once so much.   Look at that crack in the water. It's the gateway to the monsters at the bottom of the sea— an open door to a giant dance hall.   The deviant God and all his servants —some beautiful but all deformed— all are dressed in see-through flimsy gowns. They drink wine that's sour and sway to the beat of a disfigured tango.   They shed their skins— beasts, chimaera, and serpents. Hissing, they jeer and chase us.   Honey clouds and blue skies, rampant seas and wanton shorelines, all embrace in an orgy of love.   In a trance, we leap into the abyss riding on the wings of lemmings— only you and I know the truth: one day a lemming is going to fly.   Free at last, we press beyond the edge. We join a massive love-in, morality is forbidden and probity is scorned. Part of the   mosaics   cycle of poems A few words about the poem… A Mythical Dance of Liberation in a Poetic Universe In the enchanting tapestry of the erotica poem, "Riding on the Wings of Lemmings," a narrative unfolds that delves into the realms of liberation, rebellion, and eroticism. This essay embarks on an exploration of the mythological underpinnings within the poem, with a particular focus on the ancient Greek deities Pan and the satyrs. The protagonists, emblematic of youthful rebellion, navigate a world where desire and freedom intertwine with the mythical, creating a nuanced narrative that resonates across time.   Within the verses of the poem, a dance of liberation ensues, echoing both contemporary rebellion and the timeless struggles of mythological beings. The protagonists, portrayed as daring youths, embark on a journey that mirrors the complexities of human nature.   To unravel the depths of the narrative, a journey into the realms of Ancient Greek mythology becomes paramount, where gods and mythical beings serve as reflections of the multifaceted facets of existence.   Pan: The Dual Nature of Desire   At the heart of the poem stands Pan, the mischievous god of nature and fertility. His presence introduces an elemental force that defies societal norms, embodying the untamed desires that propel the narrative forward. The exploration of Pan's dual nature, encompassing both beauty and grotesquery, becomes a lens through which the protagonists' journey gains profound meaning.   Pan, with his goat-like features and wild demeanour, symbolizes the uninhibited forces of nature. In the poem, the protagonists are beckoned to embrace their primal instincts, mirroring Pan's untamed spirit. This narrative delves into the symbolism embedded in Pan's character, dissecting how his mythological presence enriches the tale, offering a mythic resonance to the themes of liberation and desire.   The Satyrs: Revelry and Sensual Pursuits   Accompanying Pan are the satyrs, mythical beings renowned for their revelry and sensual pursuits. These companions add a layer of complexity to the poem, representing the uninhibited pursuit of pleasure. The essay unravels the symbolism of the satyrs, exploring how they become metaphors for breaking free from societal constraints and embracing the primal instincts within.   In Greek mythology, satyrs are often depicted as half-human, half-horse beings, emphasizing the fusion of the wild and the civilized. Their hybrid nature draws parallels between their existence and the dualities faced by the protagonists in the poem. The exploration of the satyrs becomes a key element in understanding how the mythological realm intersects with the narrative of liberation.   Symbolism of Attire: Purity versus Desire   The second stanza of the poem introduces the symbolism of attire, with the female protagonist adorned in a white blouse and a long black skirt. This attire becomes respectively a battleground where purity clashes with the darker side of desire.   In Greek mythology, clothing often carries symbolic weight, representing not just the physical but also the metaphysical aspects of a character. The white blouse and the black skirt worn by the female, symbols of purity and the pursuit of gratification respectively, become a canvas upon which the battle between societal expectations and primal desires is painted.   The Deviant God: Celestial Dance of Deformity   As the poem unfolds, Pan, the deviant God, and his deformed servants enter the narrative, introducing explicit imagery of an orgy and a chase. This celestial dance serves as a metaphor for the pursuit of forbidden desires. The inclusion enhances the depth of the narrative, turning a seemingly chaotic scene into a mythic dance of liberation. The deformed servants, representing the darker aspects of human existence, engage in a chase, symbolizing the relentless pursuit of pleasure and the broader themes of liberation and rebellion.   Erotica in Ancient Greece: Unveiling Taboos   To fully grasp the nuances of the poem’s exploration of eroticism, a contextual understanding of sexuality in Ancient Greece and its liberal attitudes towards sex is necessary.   In Greek society, the pursuit of pleasure was considered a natural and integral aspect of life. The ancient Greeks celebrated the human body and the pleasures of the flesh, viewing sexual desire as a natural and divine force. The deliberate choice of explicit imagery in the poem aligns with the Greek appreciation for the sensual aspects of existence. By drawing parallels between the attitudes towards erotica in Ancient Greece and the modern narrative, the poem attempts to make a timeless exploration of human desire.   The Wings of Lemmings: A Surreal Liberation   The seemingly absurd image of riding on the wings of lemmings gains profound meaning when examined through the lens of Greek mythology. The symbolism of lemmings, traditionally associated with blind conformity and self-destruction, is reinterpreted as a metaphor for unconventional paths leading to newfound freedom.   Conclusion   I n conclusion, the poem transcends the boundaries of contemporary storytelling by weaving a narrative rich in mythological symbolism. The exploration of Pan, the satyrs, and the celestial dance of deformity adds layers of meaning to the themes of liberation, rebellion, and eroticism. The deliberate use of explicit imagery and the inclusion of ancient Greek elements create a tapestry of storytelling that resonates across time, inviting readers to contemplate the eternal struggle against societal norms.

Our only reality— words their beauty the lovechild of minds alike. Now a new world is dawning. The mast that dared touch the sun is broken and the yellow boat is leaking. Words of hate, an avalanche of red and I hear the echo tell me ' You were never more than just a stranger’. Our final reality. The sea swallows all. No trace. All of the words are gone. Soft, tender, angry, red and blue; all at the bottom of the raging green sea. Silence rules our world again and in this world the harshest words have no shape and have no sound. Part of the   mosaics   cycle of poems A few words about the poem…   Exploring the Depths of Toxic Love   Toxic love, an intricate tapestry woven with emotions, takes centre stage in the poem "Words." This contemplative piece presents a vivid portrayal of the impact of corrosive relationships on the human experience, offering a nuanced exploration of alienation and loneliness. With its imagery and evocative language, the poem serves as a powerful lens, scrutinizing and encapsulating the intricacies of such affairs.   The verses unfold, establishing words as the exclusive reality—a poetic journey into shared thoughts. The mast touching the sun, broken, and the leaking yellow boat symbolize vulnerability in the face of toxic relationships. Words of hate cascade like an avalanche of red, leaving the narrator estranged and encapsulated in the echo's declaration, “You were never more than just a stranger.”   As the narrative progresses, it navigates towards a final reality—the sea swallowing all, erasing traces of soft, tender, angry, red, and blue words. The raging green sea becomes the burial ground for emotions, reflecting the depth of the impact of toxic love. Silence reigns again, where even the harshest words lose their shape and sound.   This contemplative exploration illustrates the fragility of communication and its consequences, subtly alluding to the power dynamics of language. The poem presents a paradigm shift, marking ambition's vulnerability to destructive language. The colours associated with emotions now lie at the bottom of the sea, evoking a poignant sense of loss and submersion. The concluding lines bring forth a paradoxical silence, emphasizing the transient nature of toxic relationships.

I've come back to you but you are angry with me. Hissing, spitting, screaming. Don't send me away again shelter me in your blackness. Please save me from the voices. I hear them all the time now The Morning Star, The Light, and The One with Perfect Beauty. White, red, black and pale horses burning flesh and broken wings fires, flames, disease and acid rain— the battle rages on. But no one seems to care anymore who dropped the bomb on the little yellow children. The fools who think they can stop the voices are now joining in. They've seen me and I cannot hide. Riding on white horses, they come galloping to the shore. Get out of my head, I cry. But no one cares. I kiss your lips—salt and brine. I am sure it's not tears but it’s too late for doubts. I walk into your embrace and the abyss—oblivion at last. Part of the mosaics cycle of poems A few words about the poem… Oblivion at Last - Navigating the Depths of Toxic Love   In the dimly lit corridors of human emotion, the poem invites readers into an intricate dance with the complexities of toxic love. The verses serve as a haunting melody, orchestrating a narrative that unfurls the tendrils of despair and the relentless struggle against the corrosive nature of a troubled affection.   The poem emerges as an exploration, delving into the abyss where love, in its most toxic form, takes root. The title itself hints at a yearning for an end, a release from the overwhelming burdens that toxic love often bears. Stepping into this poetic landscape, readers find themselves enveloped in the shadows of a narrative that mirrors the collective experiences of those who have grappled with the complexities of love gone awry.   The central theme of toxic love surfaces early in the verses, a subtle current that runs beneath the words. It is a term weighted with the echoes of pain, a corrosive force that eats away at the foundations of a once-nurtured affection. It paints a raw and authentic portrayal of emotional landscapes tainted by the toxicity of a troubled relationship. Each verse acts as a mirror reflecting despair, heartache, and the enduring struggle faced within the tumultuous waters of such love.   The phrase "toxic love" reverberates throughout the poem, casting a shadow over the narrative and leaving an indelible mark on the reader's psyche. It encapsulates the duality inherent in relationships, where the beauty of love becomes entangled with the destructive forces that threaten to consume it. In the delicate dance between darkness and light, the poem exposes the raw vulnerability of the human heart, laid bare by the complexities of love that have soured over time.   As the verses unfold, the reader becomes a silent witness to the relentless struggle depicted in the poem. The narrative becomes a vessel, carrying us through the stormy seas of despair, where the waves of toxic love crash against the shores of the soul. The exploration within each line paints vivid pictures of the challenges faced within the confines of a relationship corroded by the toxicity of unfulfilled promises and shattered dreams.   The overview provided in the poem allows readers to step back and witness the unravelling of a connection tainted by the poison of toxic love and the stark acknowledgement of the harsh realities faced when love turns from a source of solace to a wellspring of despair. The poem becomes a sanctuary for those who have navigated similar emotional landscapes. The resonance of the verses attempts to extend beyond the individual experience, offering a shared space for reflection and introspection.   In conclusion, "Oblivion at Last" is a glimpse into the depths of love gone awry, a mirror reflecting the universal struggles that echo through the corridors of the human heart. Readers are invited to confront the shadows within, to navigate the tumultuous waters of toxic love, and to find, perhaps, a glimmer of understanding in the shared journey of despair and redemption.

Dark purple, green and black these are your colours of today. But where is your light blue dress and where is the child's laughter? Together we reached for Parnassus. Admit it, you know how much alike we are. And weren't we both agitated pondering on such an unlikely friendship? You promised to show me your mind. You invited me to take a look "come in" you said. But when I did and told you of my fascination with all that lives inside your head, you built walls and boundaries. You shouted "stop, can you not see you are crossing lines here?". Now your laughter is not gentle and your voice is no longer clear. Last time you really talked to me there was so much anger in your voice. I don't recognise you anymore. Part of the mosaics cycle of poems A few words about the poem… The poignant struggles and lack of communication in toxic love.   T he poem "Who Are You?" delves into the complexities of toxic love, where emotions are as tumultuous as the dark purple, green, and black palette painted across the verses. The absence of the light blue dress and the laughter of a child within the imagery poignantly underscores the transformation of the connection into a manifestation of toxic love.   Together, the two lovers once reached for Parnassus, reflecting their shared pursuit of artistic and intellectual endeavours. The poem adeptly explores their unlikely friendship, where previous promises to reveal one’s mind, when faced with genuine fascination led to the construction of emotional walls and boundaries.   As the verses progress, a palpable shift in tone occurs. The subject's laughter loses its gentleness, and their voice becomes less clear, embodying the toxicity that now permeates the relationship. The memory of a previous conversation echoes with anger, a stark departure from the initial camaraderie.   The lamentation, "I don't recognize you anymore," encapsulates the profound sense of loss and estrangement inherent in toxic love finding resonance within the thematic fabric of the poem. It serves as a succinct encapsulation of the emotional turmoil and disintegration of familiarity, adding an additional layer of depth to the poem.

Sweet Cyprian Goddess! A wise fool, yet I did not see when lust was turning into love. Anactoria has grown cold now. There is a new hero in her life, a warrior who plunders her each day; an Amazon with a crown of laurels. I smell her scent in our room; I see teeth marks on her skin; I feel raw scratches on her spine. She tortures me and I die. Her tears and oaths do not fool me anymore. How fragile Anactoria looks on our bed tonight. How slender seems her neck. Immortal Cyprian Goddess! Please save me from this rage, I'm drowning in a sea of green. Read A short biography of Sappho the ancient world's greatest poet This poem is part of the collection of poems Sappho A few words about the poem… Sappho Mourns the Loss of Anactoria – A Tribute to Sappho   This poetic tribute to Sappho is an imagined monologue by the ancient poetess expressing her feelings of betrayal and heartbreak after being abandoned by her lover Anactoria.   Sappho and Anactoria were both women who lived on the island of Lesbos in the 6th century BC. Whilst there is no direct historical evidence that the two women were lovers, Sappho's poetry contains many references to female same-sex relationships.   Sappho was known for her lyric poetry, which was often about love and desire. She wrote in a highly emotional and personal style, expressing her feelings and experiences in her poetry. Her work was highly respected in ancient Greece and beyond, and she was often referred to as the "tenth muse."   In this imagined poetic monologue, Sappho is expressing her heartbreak after being abandoned by Anactoria for a new lover, a warrior with a crown of laurels. Sappho is tormented by the memory of their physical intimacy, as evidenced by the scent of Anactoria in their room. Teeth marks on Anactoria’s skin and scratches on her spine torture Sappho who feels helpless and unable to resist her feelings for Anactoria even as she knows she is no longer interested in her.   The poem ends with Sappho calling on the Cyprian Goddess, a reference to Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love and beauty, to save her from the consequences of her rage and from the "sea of green" that represents her jealousy and envy.

She came into my world on jasmine-scented wings and I was beguiled by love, the speechless shy kind of love that hides in a blushing lily only to reveal itself at midnight. I was mesmerised; lost in the zest of youth, I could not speak, and in her smile, I saw a world tantalising and new. I ached for her; desire scorched me and in my marriage bed, I closed my eyes and thought of Atthis. When at last she lay next to me, I was breathless. She loosened my gown, she kissed me and I was undone by love. Seduced by the clarity of the moment, I shuddered free. She flamed my limbs with kisses, she thirsted on my breasts with more, and my wasted life lay in ruins at her feet. Read A short biography of Sappho the ancient world's greatest poet This poem is part of the collection of poems Sappho A few words about the poem… The Purity of Sappho’s Feelings for Atthis | A Tribute to Sappho   A poem, a tribute to Sappho, that reimagines her love for Atthis and pays homage to her poetic prowess that was unencumbered by societal pressures and norms, and to her unique way of expressing love, loss, and sadness. Through its evocative words, the poem paints a vivid picture of a love that is pure, honest, and unadulterated.   Sappho is widely recognized for her contribution to literature, and her works continue to captivate readers even after centuries have passed. Her poetry is revered for its emotional depth, exquisite beauty, and the way it conveys human emotions in a deeply personal and intimate manner. Even though only fragments of her works have survived to this day, her legacy has remained as a testament to her unparalleled poetic ability. Her poetry is a powerful reminder that the human experience transcends time and space, and that love is a universal emotion that touches us all.   Through her poetry, Sappho has become a symbol of female empowerment and artistic expression. She has inspired generations of poets and writers, and her work continues to be studied and celebrated today. Her ability to convey deep emotions in a simple yet profound way is a true testament to her talent as a poet. Her legacy will continue to inspire and captivate readers for generations to come.

bewildered by strange new dreams she comes to Mytilene and under a curious blue sky the scent of jasmine and the coolness of the vine Atthis falls in love in abandon on the poet's bed she yields to a world of boundless passion mouth on mouth and limbs entwined she revels in acts of wild and sinless loving tonight the journey to Apollo's light starts for Atthis in the beauty of her lover's eyes Read A short Biography of Sappho the ancient world's greatest poet This poem is part of the collection of poems Sappho