The Exile, Orpheus' Return

Once
I was born here,
by the Mediterranean
beyond the Mediterranean
rich fertile earth
and calming rains,
ruby wine
and deep olive oil,
billowing clouds and forms
Goddesses and images,
multiform promises...

Charon poles
his black Gondola -
silence -
smiling...
Once, I was born, here.

The poet
turned his head
once,
to see the music -
notes dancing - source
of light and laughter,
Venice
floating on the Adriatic,
Aphrodite
from the Mediterranean
rising, floating
white promises
and billowing gown,
gentle gesture:
the poet
had turned:

Once there was
where I was born
Goddesses and images
billowing white gowns,
green foam and orchids,
muted promises, once,
music playful,
swirling, once
where I was born
by the Mediterranean
here, once,
alone.

Orpheus turned his head
hoping to see
the music,
ascending...

Charon poles
the Black Gondola:
silence
smiling...

The Mediterranean,
Orpheus, and Eurydice,
Aphrodite,
Venus rising,
the morning star;
Once I was born
here...

Charon poles
his Black Gondola
smiling...