Sleeping Damsel

 

Whispers to the Dreaming Maiden

Can you hear me, dreamer? I spied you there,
bathing in the sun within my pasture—
followed you home, lost lamb. Of what nature
is your solitude? Peace seeking? What rare
urge sent you to bathe in my sunlight, where
clover blooms to cheer my sheep, crystal pure
water runs that rill aslant knolls to cure
my earth its thirst. Here, in my land, I care
for all the lovely sheep. Now you, beauty
stray beneath my moon and dream your passion
as though it were yours alone. My duty
calls me hence, yet I linger in this fashion
to whisper gratitude, bless sweet Beauty
Her abundance for blessing my vision.

David M Pitchford
27 March 2008