In check

Jena Woodhouse
- a childhood memoir -


Not speaking, but attended
by a hissing, popping spirit-lamp,
the bruising impact on its glass
of velvet, half-demented moths,
we'd sit across the chequered board,
my father playing black; I - white,
queen for bishop, pawn for rook,
late into the tropic night.

Uncomprehending, bleary-eyed,
I'd watch the pieces moved aside,
too drowsy to anticipate
my chevalier's untimely fate.
My father, vigilant, would wait
until I'd noticed my mistake,
then, mock-apologetic, he'd
enunciate the word: "Checkmate."

*

Half-waking from a troubled sleep,
reprising long-lost tournaments,
fool's gambits, traumatising games,
I hear his "Look before you leap!"


© Copyright: Jena Woodhouse, 2005
Свидетельство о публикации №105092000271
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I guess this is the same old good style of your poetic writings ;))

Кертис Эйлес   20.09.2005 10:11   •   Заявить о нарушении
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One day I'll surprise you with something more exciting! -:)

Jena Woodhouse   20.09.2005 10:25   Заявить о нарушении
I will be waiting for that day ;)))

Кертис Эйлес   21.09.2005 13:28   Заявить о нарушении
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