The Dryad's Dream (Poetry)

I’m being wooed tonight by the west wind —
he teases at my buds and whispers low
and I pretend I do not hear him sing
the Elvish tunes from far and long ago...

Those words have magick in them, and his voice
seduces, makes me tremble as I lean
swaying like I have no other choice
but dip my leafy head in night’s cool stream.

The darkness swarms about me — holds me close
thus I’m a prisoner caught in Love’s long dream...
the notes soar melancholy, fall morose
and I am lost inside its tragic theme...

For I am spirit-bonded to this tree —
it is my heart, and I am bound to stay
forever as its guardian, faithfully
despite all that temptation throws my way.

But oh! its hard to steadfastly ignore
the wind’s caress — his so-beguiling tongue
I’m half in thrall — I tingle at my core —
each gust a promise — soon I’ll be undone...

Then morning comes...he’s vanished — all lies still
from deep my sap is rising, ’though I’m sure
I did not weaken and withstood his will
the dream persists — and nearly something more...



This painting by Rob Greenwood, reproduced with the permission of the artist, was inspired by the poem above it. More of Rob's work can be found here: www.robgreenwoodartist.co.uk