Esperenza

Is it to black Erebus you depart,

my maiden, Esperenza? Umpteen years

consecutively, sly sleuth, white pearled art,

prancing in these adoring pupils, fears

allying truth, and your sister Apate,

wickedly beautiful, like you, bright wish,

whispers all excuses, laying beside me quite late.

How I burn hellfire beneath this unctuous fish!

Have you forgotten the engagement ring

with my heart thumping in the center crest?
     -   Oh, I imagine Dolos pawned the thing

to sorrow! And yet I wait in sleepless rest.

As gentle Aurora knocks on my door,

I hear footsteps traverse the bedroom floor.