Scarlet
(A meditation on the death of Mary, Queen of Scots)

by Leah L. Cole

Sixteen yards went into her skirt
Seven petticoats went underneath
Deepest scarlet every one
The finest fabric
Woven with love
Sewn with care
Daintily beaded bodice
Fitting sleekly beautiful
Palest cream breast
Delicate slim arms
Gentle hands
Serene face
Silky hair
Tiny feet moving resolutely
Towards doubtful doom
A breath prayer
Terrible momentary silence
Sharp blade splitting the air
Deeper scarlet creeps
Over the palest cream breast
And leaves a stain
Reeking of death.

Back