In recognition of Poetry Month, and to celebrate our treasure trove of Orcas Island poets, Orcas Issues is pleased and honored to offer daily poetry during April.
Brest, France – 1805
She swears that she remembers
the last time we lay as lovers;
promises and kisses in the dark
before the fleet sailed
on the first north wind of autumn.
She says I left her aching-lonely
stalking headlands, watching always
for the white topsails returning
her Lieutenant in the navy of Napoleon
the father of her unborn son.
Her seductive savior, I was
forever lost to Nelson’s cannons.
Only echoes of Trafalgar’s deadly roar
broke the cold and stony silence
waiting by her painted door.
And she feels again
relentless as a thorn
broken off beneath the skin
her endless never knowing
if she had simply been a fool
or loved.
© K.A.Wood
Gorgeous poem ~ you captured that never-knowing feeling that women experience when they are left waiting for a lover’s return that never comes. Moving, poignant, and so true.
Thank you Sadie, the praise of the praiseworthy is above all rewards.