Then cloud me not with rumor or romance
When I gaze in your deep and savage eyes,
For I distill, with but a single glance
The ardent truth your beauty’s smile belies.
Am I a sailor sworn to sirens songs,
Branded by fate—a legend writ in brine?
Content to love embrace ‘til hope is gone,
And rocky shores my sun-bleached bones enshrine?
Why must I importune my love is true—
Why must I bleed to prove that blood is red?
Do not pure tears and kisses sweet construe
My purpose here, that you have naught to dread?
Oh that these salt-stained orbs could see your soul,
And your dark eyes, in turn, my truth behold.

© Loubert S Suddaby. All Rights Reserved.