We walked today where kings have walked.
We talked among the things he loved so dear,
and did not share, when choices made were his.

A piano, overlaid with gold, and ceilings painted fair.
With Wagner in the background,
brought peace when peace was scarce.

His one true love he sacrificed, as she was forced to wed elsewhere.
Then tried the sister for a time, but their families plainly disagreed.

A recluse he lived for 8 long years.
immersed in booksa nd song.
Not even servants could see his face.
The time he passed alone.

Until the night his young body was found
dead in a nearby lake.
At the lonely age of 41--his new castle unfinished,
and life's melody cut short, mid-tune.

6/29/98