When Summer Leaves My Face... Poem by Cheryl Renaud

when summer leaves my face
and the seasons walk right out
you’ll find less of my beauty
and more will you find doubt

but haste I must admit convey
your purity or truth in taunt,
will testify or justify
the veil I wear might haunt

your heart I lock within my hand
will you display or clout?
This love I cage and toss the key
Till sincerity speaks out

Looks paint not a fancy face
Dive heart-first in mine eyes
Then in my soul search for that rose,
A song that never lies

You’ll find that one on lingering vine
Untoppled by the wind
Though scent and lace continue peel
Or virtue-perfect sinned

So, if mine charms fade and dry
Or grow, shadowed and stout
Then find more of my beauty
And less of my doubt.


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(1 January 2004)