The wings of Icarus


Painting by Herbert James Draper

Icarus oh Icarus!

Your father betrayed by King Minos
Was a crafty man indeed - a genius
But kings never favour those too clever
For fear of looking ridiculous

Daedalus built the Labyrinth
Which kept the Minotaur within
His mistake was to help princess
Ariadne and her beloved Theseus

Sworn enemy of her father, Minos

Yet mere walls and towers
Would not stop Daedalus
Wings of wax and feathers
He made for himself and Icarus

Do not fly too far, son
Do not tempt the sun
Do not fly to sea
And we will soon be free

Icarus soared through the sky
He flew beyond the clouds - so high
All the world a dazzling display
This was the most beautiful day

Alas ! It was his last
For the sun melted the wax
And Icarus fell upon his dream
Into the warm blue sea

But the legend and dream live on!

Copyright 2010 © ninotaziz.
All rights reserved.

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Written for the Thursday Think Tank. I admit I have been thinking of Icarus a lot lately. For I am reaching for the sun, pushing the limits - for a dream I will not give up!

9 comments:

  1. Dear Ninot Ma'am,
    A quick lesson in Greek mythology and with it a beautiful painting of Icarus to complete a grand posting. Brilliant!

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  2. Ninotaziz,
    A wonderful imagery to illustrate your very powerful words.
    A superb piece of writing..

    Best wishes, Eileen

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  3. Your writing is so wonderful and intelligent, Nino, and you obviously have a substantial grounding in and love of mythology. I love what you wrote underneath about pushing your limits and going for your dream. I know you will achieve it! Wonderful post!

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  4. A wonderful retelling of an old story..beautifully done! I too like your comment after the poem..reaching for the sun..pursuing your dream; with your writing talent, you are bound to reach the top...:)

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  5. classical alike,
    well done.

    love the wit and insights in it.

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  6. How r u? It is a lovely day, I am pleased to be here and give my gratitude to you for your love at Jingle Poetry. Week 11 is open NOW,
    You are welcome join us for another week of fun, old poems or poems unrelated to our theme are welcome.
    Let me know if you need further assistance.
    you are the best!
    xoxox

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  7. Nice take on a classic myth. Well done!

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  8. Fabulous tale of mythology...intriguing! Beautiful imaagery and always continue to reach for the sky.

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