We moved inexorably
towards idiocracy
we slipped without grip
towards dependency
We prayed filled with nothing
but false ecstasy
we crept towards our death
instinctively
We lived as slaves
fully and intentionally
We are Pompeii, Herculaneum
the ones who filled
the stadium
Called for pitiless blood
to warmly run
worshiped bearded men
and starry sun
causation, ruination
living and dead
We met for poetry, found a lively group
occupying our space; Herculaneum
High School Reunion Committee.
They introduced themselves,
offered to move. "No," we said.
"We can use the other end of the room."
Distracted by their excited chatter,
we asked, "What year did you graduate?
1961 . . . your 50th reunion . . . wow."
"You're too young for this," she said.
"No, I graduated in 1953," I said.
"1953! Hey, she graduated in 1953,"
she said. They were astonished.
"Impossible!"
"No Way!"
"Unbelievable!"
"You graduated when you were five?"
I thanked them and moved on
to the poetry meeting, floating on air.
cfa © 12/9/2010
Vespia, my dearest sister-in-law
I write to reveal my emotions raw
Victulus has asked me to wait for him
He is travelling to Herculaneum
How I do wish he could have taken me
Not as a maid but as his wife to be.
Now jealous thoughts are rising in my breast
They shall torment me in my night time rest
Cruxilas and his daughter Delphinian
Also travelling in my love's caravan
She tried to seduce him in wanton ways
Her eyes, her dress and with her hair she plays
His love reassurance in days gone past
Has long faded now as the die's been cast
I have not told him of my pregnant state
Hope nothing shall happen to make him late
Remember this year AD79
When, at last, dear Victulus shall be mine.
May the Gods favour us both,
Flavia xx
Sharp knife in hand,
Preparing vegetables from the fertile organic land…
Following the plan,
From the high command…
Using my purposeful skill,
Creating knowledge soup containing nature’s wise will…
Ingest your first bite,
Sensing a force, Herculaneum might…
A vibration sets in,
Ringing the healing bells begin...
As the cells fuse with divine Delight…
To my master, love gratefully...
The knowledge bestowed to me of culinary philosophy wizardry…
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