The Duel

     This is the story of young men being swept up by passion. For the love affection of a woman, men will do incredibly foolish things. And while today dueling is illegal, the effects and use of “feminine charms,” whether innocently or not, may still be used to satisfy the ego of the “femme fatale” as it were, and to manipulate the fool that resides in every man. In the days now long-passed, a person‘s ‘honor‘ was something that was not to be taken nor given lightly, especially by the gentrified. In truth, it was the overwhelming factor of a person’s behavior, be it man or woman.. Yes, your honor was the very measure of your worth as a person.

     Common sense and discretion on the other hand, were rarely used once a challenge had been issued, and the outcome of said challenge was of less import than the perception and reflection of one’s “manliness” and of course, his honor! And so then, when the deed was done and, with her honor defended, well, “… to the victor… The spoils.” Or was it? “… Come into my parlor, said the spider to the fly… ” I guess it’s  just a matter of perspective.

      But, this is work of fiction, and in no way reflects the opinion of anyone other than the author. (Subject to change.) No animals or duelists were mistreated or harmed, nor hearts broken, during the making of this poem. All rights reserved, etc., etc.

      Savor your Saturday,

Jake.

A point well-taken

THE DUEL

 

Dancing, silver slippers,

spawned, with silver spoon,

and silver tongue and laughter,

drawn in, the young men swooned.

* 

Silver streaks of moonlight,

reflect off silver steel,

with silver coins, bet on the side,

as to whom, the blade would feel.

* 

And then, be laid beneath the golden cross,

gold coins upon his eyes,

nevermore to see her golden hair.

Nor, one more gold sunrise.

* 

Pierced to crimson’s heart,

the steel, now staining red.

With the living, standing over him,

his final words he said.

 *

“Give all my love,

to the one, you’ll hold,

but I advise to you,

may I be so bold.”

* 

“Beware, her golden charm,

and silver chain.

Sever now, the link,

else wear this scarlet stain.”

 ***

 Jack Downing

                                                                     Sept. 2011

 

Copyright©  Jack Downing, aka Jake @poemsandponderings.wordpress.com. All rights reserved. Contents may not be reprinted or disseminated in any manner without the expressed written consent of the author. JRD 1/5/13