Theofani, wrecked in the scent of Mary Jane, pirouettes late into the night on the bridge of the village river. She shudders in its whirling waters in the arms of elfish naiads and has the taste of sullied apples on her lips picked from the sour bishop’s garden. ‘Eat child’, chirps a playful goblin with translucent crimson wings hiding in a pot of perfumed basil. A frenzied night muddies the river’s waters and in the morning the town’s envious virgins scorn her. Touched by the goblin’s madness, they gallop bareback to the ruined Basilica on the Pasha’s foaming mule. The demon gods return victorious marching proudly into the wasted temple. ‘Where are the new Olympians?’ she asks in awe of her ungodly lover. Theofani drifts into the maroon horizon craving the breath of a scarlet day and the goblin digs his nails into her spine until she howls with pain and pleasure. A few words about the poem… A Surreal Poem of Sexual Awakening from the Collection Cyprus Poems The surreal poem “Theofani,” delves into the life and experiences of a young woman in Yialousa, Cyprus in the 1900s, as she embarks on a journey filled with mystical encounters. It is likely that she suffered a stroke that caused her to lose her mind. A rumour, however, told of her being attacked by goblins on a haunted bridge. The poem, from the collection “Cyprus Poems”, begins by immersing the reader in the sensory experience of Theofani, who is surrounded by the scent of Mary Jane. This choice of imagery immediately sets the tone for a dreamlike and surreal narrative. The central image of Theofani pirouetting on the bridge of the village river evokes a sense of quirkiness and freedom. She interacts with supernatural beings like elfish naiads and a playful goblin, each adding a layer of mysticism to the story. The goblin's offer of sullied apples from the garden of a sour priest adds a touch of irony to the narrative. As the night progresses, the river's waters become muddied, symbolizing a sexually chaotic and transformative experience for Theofani. The envious reactions of the town's virgins in the morning suggest that her journey has set her apart from the conventional expectations of society. The poem takes a dramatic turn with the arrival of demon gods into the ruined Basilica, marking a departure from the ordinary world. Theofani's question about the new Olympians underscores her fascination with the supernatural and the unknown. The poem concludes with Theofani drifting into the maroon horizon, seeking new life and sexual experiences symbolised by a scarlet day, while the goblin's presence leaves a mark on her both physically and emotionally.

Waking up from a drunken stupor she looks around her shabby room. Ashtrays full, plates piled in the sink and a mattress with soiled bed sheets —her faithful and trusted servants— torn from years of loveless coupling. A quick shower behind the mouldy curtain with cheap soap, cheap shampoo and an even cheaper scent; into a bra that's a size or three too small and a skirt that's been too short for years. She smokes a roll-up and drinks raki until she hears her cue for work— a ship's horn blowing in the distance. Gasping for air, rank with stale tobacco and laced with shattered dreams, she opens her front door and waddles to the harbour. She recalls her wrecked and wasted life. First the fear, the panic and the shame then the buzz, the laughter and the thrills; until Time —deceitful and a shameless thief— stole her youth away. Each night brought a new assault. Every morning she nursed the battle scars from the night before —a small blemish on her flawless skin, a grey strand in her wild black mane— until one day the face she saw in the mirror was not her face any more. She gazes at the lilacs of the sea and listens to the noise, savouring the odours of all the sailors passing by. Such a sweet aroma. Her head feels light and maybe because of the bottle of raki or the warmth of the late Mediterranean sun she drifts into a rumbling reverie. In her much loved and much kissed body all the hurt and pain are now gone. Old lovers' faces rise in her wrinkled mind— kings, Bedouins and sultans; black, white and yellow faces, merge and she is seventeen and beautiful again. She dreams and writhes on a rotting bench until a group of sailors come passing by. They stop and stare at the old wreck and —merciless youth— they jeer and mock her. She wakes and hears their ridicule the laughter and the heartless jibes. With tears in her jaded eyes and cursing the cruelty of the young she takes the road to the sanctuary of her seedy room, grieving for the day that ended before it even had begun. A few words about the poem… The Cyprus Poems: The Odyssey of Kakoulla Panayi in the Tapestry of a Transforming Middle East In the mosaic of time's passage, a singular figure emerges—Kakoulla Panayi, a name that resonates with the echoes of a bygone era, embodying the essence of a life intertwined with the rich tapestry of the Middle East in the early 20th century. Chris Zachariou, her sister’s grandson, narrates her tale in his collection of Cyprus Poems, with a gentle yet resolute voice, providing a glimpse into a life characterized by trials and triumphs. Born in the latter half of the 19th century, Kakoulla's lineage weaves its threads across two countries, bridging Turkey and the sun-soaked island of Cyprus. Her mother, Katerina, came to the island as a child with her mother around 1860, seeking sanctuary on its soil from the persecution of Greek Orthodox Christians in the country of her birth, Turkey. This was a time when emigration was etched into the collective consciousness—a narrative of movement across lands, whispering promises of new beginnings and distant safe horizons. The early years of Kakoulla's existence were painted with the hues of innocence, a period of untouched youth that would soon yield to the harsh realities of her circumstances. An arranged marriage at the tender age of twelve, thrust her into a world marred by tumult and pain, setting the stage for a life that defied conventions. Fleeing the brutality that awaited her, she embarked on a perilous journey, transitioning from the sanctity of her home to the stark embrace of a house of ill repute. An era characterized by limited choices and pervasive vulnerability painted the backdrop of her transition. Captured and sold into a harem in Arabia, a land veiled in opulence and mystery, she found herself ensnared in a world of grandeur and captivity. However, her spirit remained undaunted, guiding her through the labyrinthine corridors of adversity. Escaping the chains that had bound her, she retraced her steps to her homeland, where the Cyprus sun greeted her with the warmth of a survivor and a storyteller. In the enigma of her gaze, one could discern the chapters of her life unfolding against the canvas of a transforming world. Kakoulla by now was fluent not only in Greek and Turkish but also in Arabic. Whispers and murmurs carried tales of her subsequent ventures—the ownership of a brothel, a hotel and, many plots of valuable land in the centre of the city. However, it was her affinity for uncharted pathways that left the most indelible mark around her. In an age when a woman's stride was often constrained, she chose a trajectory that defied expectations, accumulating wealth and influence that resonated through her community. Armed with the keys to her destiny, she emerged as a living testament to the strength of a woman's resolve. Kakoulla's legacy reverberated in the purr of an engine—a car that mirrored her journey from the past into the modernity of the 20th century. It was a declaration of emancipation, a testament that the reins of her life were firmly grasped in her own hands. Photographs immortalized her beside the polished vehicle, her beauty continuing to shine even as time traced its lines across her features. She was a frequent visitor to the sandy beaches of Yialousa, that cradled her in their warmth as she sought refuge from arthritis that gnawed at her bones. Recollections of a life well-lived flickered like distant stars in the tapestry of her memory—faces of kings, Bedouins, and sultans merged, and she was seventeen and beautiful once again. As the waves caressed the shore, she surrendered herself to the embrace of the sea—a sacred ritual that bestowed solace upon her and mended the remnants of battles fought. Her wealth bestowed upon her not just power, and authority. Yet, even in her grandeur, she remained impervious to the vicissitudes of fate. A stroke marked a passage of vulnerability, a poignant reminder that time ceaselessly eroded even the sturdiest foundations. With the doctor, the priest, and the hodja gathered around her, she confronted the shadows of mortality—an epilogue to the odyssey of an extraordinary life. In the twilight of her years, Kakoulla emerged as a testament to the intricacies of human existence—a mosaic of strength and fragility, and power. Her narrative transcends the pages of history, offering a glimpse into the social complexities and intercultural dynamics of an era perched between the whispers of empires and the shifting sands of identity. Hers is a mosaic of narratives interwoven through time, a beacon illustrating how the human spirit navigates the turbulent waters of existence with fortitude and grace. Kakoulla met her end in 1963. During the inter-communal strife between the Greek and the Turkish Cypriots the Turkish military wishing to take ownership of her house shot her and her husband Yiannis Ellinas in cold blood. To this day we do not know where they are buried and we, her family, await news from the Committee of Missing Persons so they can be laid to rest. This poem is loosely based on the life story of Kakoulla Panayi . A short biography of her life in Greek and English by Sevgul Uludag was published in the Politis newspaper.

The glorious colonel —disguised as a future legend— skulks in a musty cave, dispatching urgent orders to his retreating army. His killer squad with black hair, long beards and knives blunt from many years of senseless killings, are furious to a man. They’ve never earned a single piastre for their many years of loyal service and for this injustice, a sailor has to die. The town policeman —asleep in a hut nearby— dreamt of the young man’s death but he was shackled to his iron mattress by cowardice and fear. Wisps of matted flaxen hair and pools of congealed blood stain the tarmac and a crow sitting on the left shoulder of the moon with a black brush and an easel paints the sailor’s death mask. Schools of fish are drowning in his glazed eyes, worms and maggots crawl in his gaping mouth and a red boulder rests beside his temple. Whispers sprouted in the streets. Some said the sailor betrayed the revolution but everyone in the town knew, the soldiers killed the boy for his flaxen hair. A few words about the poem… Cyprus Poems: The Horrific Consequences of Fratricide and Civil War "A Sailor Has to Die" depicts the murder of a young sailor during a time of revolution and conflict. However, on a deeper level, the death poem, part of the collection Cyprus Poems, explores the themes of otherness, alienation, and discrimination. The murdered sailor is described as having flaxen hair, in contrast to the dark-haired soldiers who kill him. This physical difference serves as a symbol of the ways in which people who do not fit in with societal norms are often targeted and ostracized by others. The poem suggests that the sailor's hair colour is the reason for his death, His death highlights the senseless violence and discrimination that can occur when people are divided based on arbitrary physical characteristics or societal norms. Through vivid imagery, the poem portrays the aftermath of the sailor's death, emphasizing the horror and brutality of his murder. The town policeman's cowardice and fear further highlight the complicity of those who stand by and allow such violence to occur. "A Sailor Has to Die" is a commentary on the ways in which people who do not conform to what society accepts as normal are often targeted and victimized. It highlights the need for empathy and understanding, as well as the dangers of blindly following societal norms and perpetuating violence against those who are perceived as different.

I. I buried my songs in a wooden hut and in the shade of scented candles I saw the Trisagion grieve in the young girl's tears. It's so hard for me to bear this burden. Who will still weep for her in forty days from now? It’s far too soon to ask me such questions— I want to wait for dusk and for the kind priest. II. I have about me the scent of spikenard and basil and the holy father chained me to the cantor's solemn voice. I don't want to hear the cantor’s voice anymore. The cantor's stifled eulogy disturbs my sleep. I don't want to hear the church bells' sombre beat. The wailing of the bells disturbs my sleep. My eyelids are heavy with feasting beetles. I want to wrap around me a century and a night of silence and sleep beyond the words and all the noise of the cantor's chants. Part of the cycle of poems thirteen silk verses A few words about the poem… A Century of Sleep | Exploring Grief and Acceptance | Cyprus Poems In "A Century of Sleep," the poet considers profound themes, offering a contemplative exploration of grief's complexity. This death and grief poem stands within the series Thirteen Silk Verses, a part of the larger collection of Cyprus Poems. Grief is an inevitable part of the human experience. No matter who we are or where we come from, we will all experience the loss of a loved one at some point in our lives. Yet, despite its universality, grief remains a difficult and often isolating experience. In times of mourning, we may feel as though no one else can truly understand our pain. Through the power of language, poets can articulate the complex emotions of grief and offer a sense of solace and connection to those who are struggling. The death poem "A Century of Sleep", the poet’s favourite work, is an exploration of the experience of loss. Drawing on the rich traditions of death poetry, it attempts to capture the essence of grief in a series of vivid and evocative images. Through metaphor we see the Trisagion grieving in the young girl's tears and we feel the weight of the burden of grief, and the overwhelming sense of loss that permeates every moment. Yet, through it all, there is a sense of hope - the hope that comes from the knowledge that we are not alone in our sorrow, that others have walked this path before us and emerged stronger on the other side. The second part of "A Century of Sleep" takes us on a journey beyond the realm of the living. Here, we are given a glimpse into the mind of the deceased girl as she comes to terms with her own passing. In stark contrast to the grief and mourning of the living, the girl is at peace, tired of the sombre rituals and ready to embrace the silence and solitude of death. Through the eyes of the girl, we see death not as an end, but as a new beginning. She longs for the quiet and stillness that comes with her new existence, away from the noise and chaos of the world. The cantor's voice and the sombre beat of the church bells, once a source of comfort and solace, now disturb her sleep. Instead, she seeks a century of silence and rest, a chance to escape from the words and the noise of the world.

We close her eyes we kiss her forehead then darkness for eternity. An ashen moon drips blood on thirteen white carnations and four crippled swallows pull her chariot up to a wounded sky. she rises to the heavens she is one with the angels she is one with the stars Chants and prayers "earth to earth" “ashes to ashes” "dust to dust" olive leaves burning in the censer. Her grave unsated, gaping, it commands its dues— a body a scattering of earth a glass of oil a slice of bread then we walk away and she is all alone she rises to the heavens she is one with the angels she is one with the stars and fifteen tear-soaked carnations mourn the fateful day. Part of the cycle of poems thirteen silk verses A few words about the poem… Farewell's Elegy: A Reflection on Transcending Mortality | Cyprus Poems In the death and grief poem “Requiem” a sombre aura envelops the scene as it captures the poignant act of bidding farewell to the teenage girl. The verses unfold with a measured restraint, echoing the solemnity of the moment as the departed is laid to rest. Through the gentle strokes of language, the poem paints a picture that transcends individual experience, inviting readers to contemplate the universal rituals of loss and remembrance. Set within the series "Thirteen Silk Verses," from the collection “Cyprus Poems,” it portrays the act of farewell as it guides the reader through the Greek Orthodox burial rituals that accompany the departure of a loved one. The act of closing the departed's eyes and pressing a tender kiss to their forehead is described with an intimate tenderness that evokes empathy, transcending cultural and personal boundaries. As the poem unfolds, the imagery shifts to capture the symbolism of transition and transcendence. An "ashen moon" lends an eerie hue to the scene, conjuring a sense of otherworldliness. Blood dripping onto "thirteen white carnations" alludes to the purity of the girl, the fragility of life, and the inevitability of mortality. "Four crippled swallows" pull the chariot, evoking an image of devastation and an ethereal carriage, blurring the earthly and celestial realms. The poet's use of repetition, emphasizing the departed's unity with angels and stars, imbues the poem with a sense of spiritual interconnectedness. The rhythm of chants and prayers, invoking the cycle of life and death, resonates across cultures, further emphasizing the universality of the experience. Olive leaves burning in a censer evoke a sensory dimension, heightening the reader's engagement with the ritual. The closing lines bring forth the stark reality of the grave's demands. The imagery of an "unsated, gaping" grave conveys the unyielding nature of mortality. The prescribed offerings of "a body, a scattering of earth, a glass of oil, a slice of bread" symbolize the act of relinquishing one's physical presence, rendering an emotional farewell even more palpable.

My darling son, there is a cry for war across the land by those who have no sons and it calls for you to fight. We wave goodbye then I see the gun across your shoulder and I nearly die. My darling son, when the war is over and the guns fall silent, when there is peace over our ravaged land, I will bake a cake; we will sing, we will dance and we shall eat the fatted calf. Forty years have flown by and the young soldier has not come home yet until one day in March a truck rolls into the tiny town carrying in its back a coffin with the missing soldier's bones. A few words about the poem… I Will Bake a Cake: from the collection Cyprus Poems—for Yiannakis Liasi The imagery in this death and grief war poem from the collection Cyprus Poems, is stark and evocative, painting a vivid picture of the devastation and heartbreak experienced by the families who lost loved ones during the coup d’état in Cyprus. The poem is a poignant reminder of the human cost of war and the lasting impact it has on those left behind. It is a moving portrayal of a mother's pain and loss during the turbulent times of the coup d’état in Cyprus in 1974 by the extreme right wing followed by a Turkish invasion that resulted in thousands of dead and missing. The poem takes us on a journey of a mother bidding farewell to her son as he is called to fight in the war. The gun across his shoulder is a constant reminder of the danger he is facing. The mother's words are filled with love and concern for her son, as she promises to bake him a cake and celebrate his return home. However, as the years pass by, the hope of her son's safe return diminishes. The tone of the poem shifts as the mother receives news of her son's death. The sense of grief and mourning is palpable as the mother is left to grapple with the reality of her son's loss. The imagery used in the poem is stark, painting a vivid picture of the devastation and heartbreak experienced by families who lost loved ones during the coup d’état. It is a reminder of the human cost of war and the long-lasting impact it has on those left behind. Through the poem, we witness the mother's determination to honour her son's life and legacy by baking a cake. It is a touching reminder of the love between a mother and her child, even in the most difficult circumstances. " I Will Bake a Cake," is a powerful and emotional portrayal of the impact of war on families. It is a reminder of the pain and loss experienced by those left behind, and the lasting impact it has on their lives.

In the beginning, the situation seemed hopeless. We were overwhelmed. We duelled on it for days, we argued over it for months. What were the choices, we asked. I wanted to climb every mountain we came across, you wanted to walk around instead. Every time we came near a cliff, I tried to jump. Each time you held my hand and saved me. You looked up and saw my head up in the clouds; I looked down and saw your feet firmly on the ground. For a moment we panicked. We wanted to run but we were in love and stayed together. A few words about the poem… Love Conquers All: Couple's Leap of Faith | A coming-of-Age Poem The coming-of-age poem "Choices" explores the intricate dynamics within a relationship while delving into the complexities of decision-making during challenging circumstances. The poet navigates through various themes, using distinct imagery and contrasting perspectives to convey the inner conflicts and eventual resolutions that arise within the narrative. At the outset of the poem, a sense of hopelessness and overwhelm becomes palpable, reflecting a situation that demands critical consideration. Through prolonged deliberation and discourse, the poem introduces the central theme of contrasting viewpoints. These opposing stances reveal the intricacies of choices, inviting the reader to engage in a nuanced exploration of differing approaches. By employing metaphors of mountain climbing and circumventing, the poem illustrates the divergence in the characters' attitudes toward obstacles. This dichotomy is further emphasized through the vivid imagery of cliffs and precipices. The tension created by one individual's impulsive leaps and another's steadfast restraint captures the essence of risk-taking versus cautiousness, which lies at the heart of their dynamic. The poem's portrayal of divergent perceptions is a noteworthy aspect that adds depth to the narrative. The portrayal of one person looking upwards and another gazing downwards reinforces the contrasting vantage points the characters hold. This conveys a subtle depiction of their outlooks, characterizing one as idealistic and the other as grounded. This contrast contributes to the multifaceted portrayal of their relationship. In its denouement, the poem offers a poignant reflection on the choices made and their impact on the characters' bond. The decision to remain together, despite their differences and challenges, epitomizes the complexities inherent in relationships. This conclusion serves as a reflection of human nature itself – acknowledging that embracing differences and forging a path forward necessitates understanding, acceptance, and compromise. In conclusion, the poem "Choices" explores the intricacies of a relationship by examining the challenges, decisions, and resolutions that shape the characters' journey. The poem's exploration of choices and their consequences within the context of a relationship offers valuable insights into the human experience, inviting contemplation on the intricacies of decision-making and its impact on connections between individuals.

The circus will perform    tonight in a bleak and distant land. They brought with them monsters and warrior kings stunning queens and wild beasts and lorryloads full of dreams. For the people's entertainment they proclaim a show that will shock, amaze and thrill. A youth watches lost in dreams. Spellbound, he resolves to run away to a life of danger and daring feats— the fearless star of the high trapeze. But when morning comes, his will weakens and his dreams wilt. Λίγα λόγια για το ποίημα... A Coming-of-Age Poem and the Fragility of Imagination Within the sombre embrace of a desolate town, rejected and abandoned by both gods and demons, the verses of the coming-of-age poem "The Circus," crafted by the pen of Cyprus poet Chris Zachariou, come alive. A vivid tapestry of coming-of-age unfolds against a backdrop of shattered dreams and forgotten hopes. "The Circus" emerges as a resplendent realm of dreams and enchantment, like a secret oasis in a barren wasteland. It arrives in the town with trucks filled to the brim with fantasies, creatures of myth, and majestic beasts. Kings and queens, princes and princesses adorn this grand spectacle, captivating the hearts of all who bear witness. Amidst the audience, a young man stands bewitched by the allure of "The Circus." Lost in reverie, the vibrant imagery fuels his imagination, and he envisions himself as the brightest star in the trapeze act, a daring and celebrated acrobat defying gravity with each graceful leap. His aspirations, once tethered to the mundane reality of the town, soar high in the realms of possibility. Drawn deeper into the intoxicating world of the circus, the young dreamer contemplates an audacious escape, a leap into the unknown where his fantasies can intertwine with reality. The circus whispers a promise of freedom, adventure, and limitless potential. It becomes a sanctuary where he believes he can discover his identity, away from the confines of the mundane existence that surrounds him. However, as the first rays of morning light pierce through the horizon, illuminating the town with its harsh reality, the young man's resolve wavers. The dreams that once burned brightly within him begin to dim, fading into the pale light of day. The weight of uncertainty and the fear of the unknown bear heavily upon his fragile spirit, overshadowing the allure that once beckoned him. "The Circus" becomes a metaphor for the fragility of dreams and the ephemeral nature of youth. It explores the transformative power of imagination, the clash between desire and reality, and the sacrifices one must make to navigate the tumultuous journey of self-discovery. "The Circus" invites us to ponder the choices we face, the allure of escapism, and the delicate balance between chasing our dreams and confronting the limitations of our circumstances. It is a poignant reminder that sometimes, the most profound journeys occur within the confines of our own minds.

impish fairies bait the child with handfuls of red berries ‘don't eat the berries cries her father ‘don't eat the berries begs her mother the moon child eats the berries and her gown is now blemished with red stains red red red red is dripping on her gown and her pristine white gown from her toes up to her neck is now covered with red stains they take her to the forest and the child and the fairies they dance till three am packs of wolves and white horses lure the child to the temple frenzied serpents chase the moon child the red stains on her gown driving the snakes wild and the serpents and the child they dance till three am an angel lures the moon child with doughnuts soaked in honey ‘don't eat the honey cries her father ‘don't eat the doughnuts begs her mother there are breadcrumbs on her lips and her mouth is drenched with honey red red red red is dripping down her gown black water fills the rivers black water fills the seas and the angel and the moon child they dance till three am then he flies her far away juices dripping on her gown crumbs and honey on her lips A few words about the poem… A Coming-of-Age Poem: Choices and Consequences in the Realm of Fantasy In the realms of fantasy, amidst ethereal landscapes, a tale unfolds in this coming-of-age poem of a young girl venturing into the depths of womanhood. Delicate and resolute, she navigates the labyrinthine paths of self-discovery, guided by the moon's bewitching glow. Secrets and mysteries, like whispered incantations, shroud her path, while forbidden allure beckons her closer. This poem by the Cyprus poet Chris Zachariou is part of a mesmerizing trilogy, links to the other two poems are shown below, delving into the different consequences that befall those who dare to make pivotal choices. With each step, innocence merges with a burgeoning sense of desire, as the shadows of temptation dance around her, tempting her towards unknown realms. As her story intertwines with the threads of fate, the repercussions of her decisions ripple through her life and the lives of those around her. This is a tale where magic intertwines with reality, and the delicate threads of her journey weave a tapestry of captivating enchantment, illustrating the profound impact of the paths we choose to follow.

in boats with broken masts they come looking for a manger but our inn is full tonight the inn we built on the skull and bones of Africa and who will hear the screams of children with blisters for a skin and who will listen to a father's cry cradling his lifeless son and who will love three thousand children with green lips and fleshless skulls in this cruel and loveless sea even the dead begin to weep A few words about the poem…   The Migrant Song: A Powerful Entry in Anti-War Poems   In the poignant verse of "The Migrant Song," a profound narrative unfolds, evoking the harrowing experiences of those seeking refuge across treacherous waters. As part of the series "Anti-War Poems," this work explores themes of displacement, suffering, and the consequences of global conflicts, highlighting the often-overlooked plight of migrants.   The poem begins with an image of boats with broken masts, symbolizing the fragile and perilous journey of refugees. They come "looking for a manger," invoking a sense of desperate hope and biblical imagery of seeking shelter. However, the stark reality is quickly presented: "our inn is full tonight," signifying the rejection and lack of hospitality that these individuals face upon arrival.   A powerful critique is embedded in the line, "the inn we built / on the skull and bones of Africa," which alludes to the historical exploitation and colonization that have contributed to current crises. This acknowledgement of complicity serves as a reminder of the broader context within which these migrations occur, pointing to the lingering effects of imperialism and economic disparity.   The poem then shifts focus to the individual suffering of migrants. The visceral imagery of "children’s screams / with blisters for a skin" and a father "cradling his lifeless son" brings to light the personal tragedies that are part of this broader narrative. These lines resonate deeply, illustrating the human cost of conflict and displacement.   The recurring question, "and who will love / three thousand children / with green lips and fleshless skulls," underscores the overwhelming nature of the crisis. The green lips suggest the effects of decay in the sea waters where they drowned, while the fleshless skulls evoke images of death. This haunting portrayal challenges the reader to consider their own response to such widespread suffering.   In the concluding lines, the sea itself is described as "cruel and loveless," an indifferent expanse that magnifies the despair of those lost to it. The assertion that "even the dead begin to weep" speaks to an almost cosmic sorrow, as if the magnitude of the tragedy has reverberated beyond the living.   "The Migrant Song" stands as a significant contribution to the series of Anti-War Poems, encapsulating the themes of displacement and the human cost of conflict. By drawing attention to the suffering of migrants and the historical contexts that have shaped their journeys, the poem challenges readers to reflect on their own role in addressing these ongoing humanitarian crises.

Bacchus dressed in skins and fine purples comes riding to the shore; debauched and sinful he craves the willowy nymph drowning in a sea of lilies. Ariadne betrayed by her lover grieves on the shores of Naxos for the loss of Theseus. How beautiful and pale the forlorn child looks. Her breasts are almost bare her neck is long and slender and a promise of blemished innocence shades her eyes. Frenzy drives the god insane. He brings her garlands made of stars and scatters orchids and red roses at her feet. Drunk with lust the takes the frightened child to his marriage chamber and on the bridal bed with kisses beyond limits he meanders on her thighs until she throbs with joy. Driven to the peaks she casts her love for Theseus and all her morals in the sea and she revels in the rhythm of his honey-dripping flute. Drunken satyrs sway in darkness; with glazed eyes, they beseech their master until god and goblins are one. Ariadne free at last of all wrecked prisons, guides Bacchus and his beasts into labyrinths of sinful pleasure. Prudence is destroyed, her sensual mouth brims with honey and unbridled chaos rules the land. A few words about the poem…   The Enchanting Tale of Bacchus and Ariadne: A Journey Through Greek Mythology Poems   The narrative of Bacchus and Ariadne, rooted deeply in Greek mythology, has inspired countless artistic and literary works. This poem, "Bacchus and Ariadne," belongs to the series Greek Mythology Poems, capturing the essence of divine indulgence and mortal longing.   In the lore of Greek mythology, Ariadne, the daughter of King Minos of Crete, is an emblem of love and betrayal. She aided Theseus, the Athenian hero, in escaping the Labyrinth after slaying the Minotaur, only to face abandonment on the island of Naxos. Here, the myths diverge: either she succumbs to despair, or she is found and wed by Bacchus, the god of wine and revelry.   The poem vividly illustrates Bacchus' arrival, clad in skins and fine purples, embodying both debauchery and divine desire. His arrival on Naxos sets the stage for a passionate encounter. The description of Ariadne as a "forlorn child" with "blemished innocence" evokes her vulnerability and the poignant shift from innocence to ecstasy.   Ariadne’s initial sorrow, lamenting her betrayal by Theseus, is portrayed with delicate imagery. Her grief is palpable as she grieves on the shores of Naxos, a symbol of lost love and shattered dreams. The poem’s depiction of her physical beauty—her almost bare breasts, long slender neck, and eyes shaded with innocence—captures the reader’s empathy for her plight.   As Bacchus approaches, driven by frenzy and lust, the poem transitions into a vivid tableau of divine seduction. The god's actions—bringing garlands made of stars, scattering orchids, and red roses at her feet—symbolize both his love and his overwhelming desire. The intensity of their union is conveyed with striking language, describing how Bacchus' kisses lead Ariadne to revel in joy and abandon her past love.   The poem reaches a crescendo as Ariadne embraces the rhythm of a "honey-dripping flute," casting aside her morals and succumbing to the chaotic pleasures of Bacchus’ realm. The imagery of drunken satyrs swaying in darkness, merging with their master, paints a scene of unrestrained ecstasy and primal unity.   Ariadne’s transformation is complete as she guides Bacchus and his followers into "labyrinths of sinful pleasure." This vivid depiction of their union signifies a release from her past sorrows and an embrace of her newfound power and freedom. The poem concludes with Ariadne’s sensual mouth brimming with honey, a metaphor for the intoxicating bliss and unbridled chaos that now rule her existence.

Our homes lie in ruins and our daughters are abused by the soldiers of a corrupted faith. Children are forsaken by the angels and mothers with babies yet unborn are drowning in the darkest seas. Our dead are left unburied by the roadside, their putrid flesh a banquet for death's foot soldiers. The trail of misery is endless. At the borders we are called terrorists, malingerers and thieves and all-the-while countries playing to the gallery declare quotas without shame. A few words about the poem…   A Lament for the Migrants' Suffering | The Anti-War Poems   The poem "The Migrant's Journey" is a heart-wrenching piece from the series Anti-War Poems that vividly captures the harrowing experiences faced by migrants fleeing conflict and persecution. In a world often desensitized to the plights of the displaced, this poem stands as a powerful reminder of the human cost of war and the desperate search for sanctuary.   The opening lines set a bleak scene, depicting homes in ruins and daughters violated by soldiers adhering to a corrupted faith. The use of stark imagery emphasizes the pervasive destruction and moral decay inflicted by war. This poignant portrayal of violated innocence and destroyed livelihoods underscores the urgency of the migrants' plight.   Children, abandoned by angels, symbolize the loss of hope and protection, while mothers with unborn babies drowning in dark seas evoke the ultimate tragedy of lost futures. This imagery resonates deeply, conveying the despair and helplessness experienced by those forced to leave their homelands. It highlights the perilous journeys undertaken by many, where the risk of death at sea is a stark reality.   The poem continues with a grim depiction of the unburied dead, whose decaying bodies are left as a grim testament to the conflict's brutality. This serves as a chilling reminder of the inhumanity that often accompanies war, where even the dead are denied dignity. The phrase "a banquet for death's foot soldiers" is particularly striking, conjuring images of carrion feeders thriving amidst the chaos, further emphasizing the dehumanizing effects of conflict.   As the poem transitions to the plight at borders, the endless trail of misery becomes apparent. The migrants, seeking refuge, are met with hostility and derogatory labels such as "terrorists, malingerers and thieves." This illustrates the profound misunderstanding and prejudice they encounter, highlighting the additional psychological burden placed upon them. It challenges readers to reconsider the narratives often perpetuated about migrants and to recognize the humanity behind the headlines.   The final lines critique the political posturing of nations that, while publicly declaring quotas, fail to address the root causes of migration or offer genuine assistance. This indictment of superficial policies calls for a more compassionate and practical approach to the migrant crisis. It suggests that playing to the gallery is insufficient and underscores the need for sincere and effective solutions.   "The Migrant's Journey" from the series Anti-War Poems serves as a compelling advocacy for migrants, urging readers to empathize with their suffering and to reconsider the often simplistic and prejudiced views held about them. The poem's vivid and stark imagery powerfully conveys the tragic consequences of war and displacement, making a strong case for a more humane and understanding response to one of the most pressing issues of our time.