You are a rainbow
—a gilded-winged messenger —
a fresh-faced goddess,
refilling rain clouds
with seawater.

Whispers of wind,
Zephyrus by your side,
plunge
into the ocean deep,
underworld dark,
unhindered by the caduceus,
unchecked before sea serpents.

Harpy sister
bring to Zeus the great oath of gods,
Iris, take him your ewer,
sweet syrup of nectar.

Swift, sure, storm-like,
rage of the messenger
bent on your twin.
Your joy, iridescence of Arke’s wings
dulled by Achilles, he of the heels.

Harbinger of light
in gossamer gown:
ruby red;
orange organza;
yarrow yellow;
gecko green;
byzantine blue;
incisive indigo;
virtuous violet
—the realm of the rainbow is yours—
always beyond reach.

Polly Stretton 2020

Revised for napowrimo #6