Beloved Muse

As a child yet unscathed by cupid’s bow,

I was drawn to my beloved’s deep voice,

mellow and soothing like my lost father’s.

With him came an old world tradition

that he patiently taught me over time

to hone and honor with deep devotion.

Life became an adventure! Together

we performed Bach in Banaras, Bartok

in Budapest, Ravel in gay Paris.

He still beckons me to take the high road,

obey my heart, follow what I love.

Even when I stray, he silently waits,

ever responsive to my warm embrace.

Ann West, 2017