The Sublime Dream of a Wealthy Merchant

O Serenissima,*fabled city 
guarding the bluest lagoon, remain
the Queen of the Adriatic Sea;
on a gondola I glide while
the gondolier sings to luminous stars.

Under bridges of moonlight,
mysteries increase by the dozen;
standing on the Bridge Of Sighs,
a fair-haired girl leans forward 
blowing kisses to a gorgeous boy 
who stops and smiles back tenderly.

On the topmast he awaits early daylight,
unfurled sails excite his spirit never
fraught. He looks back for a last time, 
surroundings whet his curiosity;
behind him stand buildings of break
and stone that have endured time's fury.

The eastern sun comes up slowly,
he rubs his moist eyes and sighs;
his tall ship is ready to depart
for lands rich of exotic spices;
they will be traded for linen 
textiles and beautiful glassware. 

Months will pass, probably years,
a wrinkle or two will appear
on his sun-tanned forehead 
beneath his fluttering red velvet hat;
he will think of Venice before sleep-
the sublime dream of a wealthy merchant.   


* Serenissima: The most serene
Copyright © | Year Posted 2016

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A. Sharma Avatar
February 16, 2016 at 12:49 AM
Loved learning the new word.. really serene
A. Sharma Avatar
February 16, 2016 at 12:48 AM
Wonderful write Andrew.. congrats on big win!
Raven Avatar
February 15, 2016 at 10:20 PM
Hi Andrea, Congratulations on your win in the contest....Vlad.
A   Avatar
February 14, 2016 at 3:56 PM
Andrew, Congratulation on your awesome win. Stop by my latest blog "Its a lie" if you'd like. I hope you are enjoying your day. Always & Forever ~LINDA~
Guzzi Avatar
January 15, 2016 at 4:33 PM
I hope you are proud of yourself! You have created a fine body of work! Now, get submitting! Light & Love
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