Aviatrix (Poetry)

Many things I pondered those nineteen days spent wandering
free as the albatross that follows his own chart —
Jason a mere shadow on the ocean’s meandering —
a crucifix that bounced across its heart.

In the company of clouds I travelled, examining
my dream — put in perspective my few years on earth
until ambition’s voice had ceased its anxious clamouring
allowed my soul uncover life’s true worth.

I crossed the desert — felt its heat inflame my fragile wings —
its sands another sea of yellow waves that rolled
horizon to horizon — stretched like the sky was squinting
at the changing light — dull to blinding gold.

Gliding above strange cities — buildings lit up by their fires
or glowing pale in moonlight — silhouettes cut clear
guessing few would think a woman might follow such desires
for solo flight — and be a pioneer.

I don’t recall one moment wishing I was somewhere else
other than the cockpit — that claustrophobic space
’though Death sat at my shoulder, I’d a stronger sense of self —
complete conviction I would last the race.

The crowd cheered loud in Darwin as my Gipsy Moth touched down
it seemed that fame brought half the world for me to meet
yet already I missed freedom and fought to hide a frown —
the sudden ground too solid for my feet.