Birthday

I

You were born, I recall,

on the same day

that snow melted,

and blossoms bloomed.

My heart burst for you.

Your glowing cheeks,

your radiant smile,

your shimmering emerald eyes.

Your mouth formed a perfect 'O'

as you sang

with the dove and the nightingale

and the thrush.

II

The day you were born

was the day a curtain

fell over my world.

Your eyes emitted a dull green glare.

Your lips tinged the colour of poison.

Your hair the colour of death.

My ears rang, my head throbbed -

your wail pierced

the still world.

I still wait.