Crimson Rose

CRIMSON ROSE You stand once more beside the harbour wall This is the third night I have seen you there. I watch you from a distance, proud and tall A shaft of sunlight glinting in your hair What is it draws you to that spot each day? What thoughts of sadness occupy your mind? The memory of a love far, far away, A yearning for your homeland left behind? Sad seagulls’ cries provide the only sound; You reach out, casting something on the sea And then, oblivious to all around, You slip away still steeped in mystery I look down where the water gently flows. It’s empty save for one dark, crimson rose