As a Raven Caws

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Something dreadful do I see, reflected in her eyes. Could be death she's seen in a horrid dream, or perhaps the relapse of a wretched addiction that's left her at the mercy of this raven's claws. One whose beady eyes know of her disgrace and drew the blood that trickles down her face. Tonight, he dares to expose her human faults and as gilded moonlight dims... her world is grim. What sinfulness does she bear in this pose? One Poe would have drawn to illustrate a poem, telling a dark tale as a black raven preens. Cloaked in dark iridescent sheen he dares to reveal the crown of her sin, as an ornament worn in her locks. Nay! His cawing draws attention to the pox he spreads on her as his wings span over her ears. Disheveled and weary from shame and fear, she grows more forlorn with each yowl she hears. What horror was sown within those green eyes? Ask the black bird for he swore allegiance in rhyme to the reaper, without giving thought to her crime. Forevermore will he tell the tale of it all... the reason for her fall from grace, the tears on her face, and the appalling reason blood drips from his claws. There is a flaw in the heart of his beloved, and he swore by squawking that they were unforgivable and yet... regret is an emotion this raven seemed to have felt when he fled after unveiling her iniquities with his egregious voice until hoarse and then hung his ebon head in remorse.

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Jan Allison

Date: 4/21/2024 9:40:00 AM

Deep dark dramatic and that is just the first stanza Lin - what an epic you gave me the chills with the vivid imagery, got to say I am not a poe fan but i do adore Lin Lane's poetry! hugs Jan xx

Lin Lane
Date: 4/21/2024 10:12:00 AM

Fear not that I've gone over the edge of darkness, Jan. It's just a ledge that I sometimes dare stand upon to write. Thank you for peering into the shadows of these thoughts. They will pass on the next sunny day.

Paul Willason

Date: 4/21/2024 6:10:00 AM

Superb !. Wonderfully crafted poem that holds heart, eye, breath and blood suspended. You have channelled Poe masterfully but still retaining that unmistakable Lin Lane way with words. Just keeps giving....

Lin Lane
Date: 4/21/2024 6:52:00 AM

Thanks so much for your commendations on this one, Paul. I value your appreciation for my attempt at dark poetry. High praise from you makes me smile.

Arthur Vaso

Date: 4/21/2024 4:05:00 AM

Before I comment, I just want you to know I purchased you an ego ! Poe was one of the first poets I ever read, this is a gem.

Lin Lane
Date: 4/21/2024 4:44:00 AM

Pray tell, what price for an ego? I’m not one to shout or boast nor beat my chest and gloat. I’m not the narcissistic type to cry, “Look at me’!” I know you mean it as an honor and I thank you for the gesture, Art. Poe is worthy of accolades.

Sara Etgen-Baker

Date: 4/20/2024 4:40:00 PM

Your poem left me breathless and in awe, Lin. Your poem is a masterpiece filled with descriptive words that gripped my heart at every turn. I appreciate your Poe references. Your use of a raven is compelling and adds an element of dread and foreboding to your poem. I especially liked "Forevermore will he tell the tale of it all...the reason for her fall from grace, the tears on her face, and the appalling reason blood drips from his claws. You're awesome and creative! Enjoy your evening, Sara

Lin Lane
Date: 4/20/2024 5:09:00 PM

Your comments are also awesome and would be great for my ego if I had one, Sara. LOL I love being on the wavelength of Poe's manner of thinking, although his genius can never be compared to any poet I've read. I just think in dark mode sometimes. The lines you pointed out are among a few that I particularly liked, as well. Thanks so much.