LITR 3731: Creative Writing
Student Poetry Submission 2003

Brandie Minchew

Comet

Shimmering,
the wayward comet
inscribes her path across the heavens
in her perilous passage
through this obscure galactic corner.
I see myself in her, suspended in a frame of stars,
struggling to circumvent the giant forces
of my frail and human soul
which seek to shatter my loves
and leave them adrift.

Many a comet dies unseen.
Gravity tears them apart,
Piece by piece.
A few find their balance among the planets,
And draw near the sun.  

I have crossed the orbits
of second thoughts,
of doubt
fear
grief
anger
despair.
And still I am drawn onward,
This greatness to my smallness
An irresistible force.

As my soul reaches perihelion,
Blazing with light for all to see,
My tale will dazzle a thousand skies,
And though that light will dim,
(For it is but reflected glory),
My passing will be marked,
Recalled in generations hence.

Siren  

The forest is alive tonight
With harp and faerie song,
And floating high upon the wind,
Hear the haunting faerie flutes.
The steady beat of tambour
Pulses swift, surreal, and strong,
Leaving every creature breathless,
As the melody takes root.

Take my hand and join me
For the wildest dance of dances.
Let the drum become your heartbeat -
I'll be one with you tonight.
Whirl until the stars become
A blur through all your glances -
Thus will the rhythm take you
And will give your passion flight.

Then follow me in twilight
To the forest's shadowed halls.
Mortal lover, let me lead you
To my dwelling, ages old.
Brush away the echoes
Of abandoned lovers' calls,
For your heart is in my keeping,
And your soul is mine to hold.

by Brandie Minchew