Melancholy, His Dark Mistress


The Magus whispered
from across the sea:
"Betrayal follows love
like a shadow"
but I believe rather
that betrayal blows across
love like a dark wind
whipping up a storm.
I wonder if it is a presage
or an omen but the sails
are unfurled
carrying visions, dreams,
and magical things
across the world.


The Magus whispered
close to me:
"I understand melancholy."
He does understand,
as well I do,
because Melancholy is
his dark mistress, too.
Though I be passion,
sour and sweet,
and he declares me holy
and good enough to eat,
he stands beside me and
steadies me right
as I strike a stone heart flint
and for a brief moment,
I light up the night.


~XineAnn