Adonis by Anna Philips

Adonis

Etched into the surface,

Cold casket in disgrace.

You once held youth and beauty

Now loathing took their place.

Dawn was for your wanderings,

Perfumed blooms in your wake

You gave no thought to shortcomings

Why should you anyway?

Others at your disposal,

Their needs of no concern.

Stolen laughter, compliments

Vanity at every turn.

Life stands still for no one,

Buds, bloom, wilt, cast aside.

You forget, my dear,

These things don't last

Embrace the rising tide.

When did you lose your rakish ways?

When did you turn to greed?

Oh craven, secretive, spoiled knave,

The world yours to deceive.

Flames caress your leather skin.

Disgust is washed away

Made pure, fresh-washed linens,

Yet none rise from ash today.