-- WATER SWAN -–

John Herlihy

Why want something back when you know it is gone,

Once a part of the tapestry, now from your heart torn.

Hollow drums reverberate, but the sound seems empty,

Gone all the vibrant emotions that filled you with plenty.

The flute wavers, the notes of the piano linger and fade,

The tidal waters now retreated, you can no longer wade.

The smoky white breath of winter makes the wind blow,

As harsh winter wind agitates the dusty crystals of snow.

A dreamy longing enters the mind and then takes hold,

Playing again the recurring memories ever before told.

The transparent icicles frozen solid as winter’s spears,

Soon a breath of spring will melt them down into tears.

Why want something back when you know it is gone,

Into the mist of time, as ephemeral as a water swan.

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(c) John Herlihy 21 December 2018