This Sordid Villanelle

It seems I can’t escape this plot, this telling of the tell; a mandatory element is a first-person write. Just don’t make me the villain of this sordid villanelle. I much prefer to narrate from deep down within my shell; I like to lurk in shadows and remain tucked out of sight. Alas, I can’t escape this plot, this telling of the tell. It’s not that I’ve got much to hide; that’s one I can dispel. But making much about oneself: a war I’ve had to fight. Just don’t make me the villain of this sordid villanelle. I’d rather paint a masterpiece or cast a magic spell With heroes bold and brave and strong, with maidens fair and slight. Alas, I can’t escape this plot, this telling of the tell. Or tales about redemption from the fiery pit of hell with pastures green to rest one’s head on clear and starry nights… Just don’t make me the villain of this sordid villanelle. And so, dear reader, though I strain to bring you in as well, I hope you can forgive a man’s self-referential plight. Alas, I can’t escape this plot, this telling of the tell; just don’t make me the villain of this sordid villanelle. ---------- for the First Person Villanelle Poetry Contest sponsored by L Milton Hankins written on 08/26/2022