The Gryphons

Two totems stand against the arch-

One on the left, one on the right-

And guard the entrance night and day

Without the least respite.

 

Their eyes are fixed not on the street-

As those of other guards would be-

But on each other solemnly,

As though in rivalry.

 

One, eagle-headed, bears his claws,

And vainly grins from ear to ear.

The other, lion-headed, bears

His talons with a sneer.

 

Day after day they vie to be

The one who has the most acclaim,

The eagle proud and elegant,

The lion menacing but tame,

Yet neither one aware that all

Esteem them both the same.

-EDP

Reviews

[Esteban Morfín]

this one might be my favorite yet. Such an awesome poem about such a simple thing. Just two gryphons looking at each other. You are at another level with this one. I hope I am able to write like this at some point.

[emipoemi]

well, I can always offer you my mentoral services. I've been writing for a good decade now, and still going. Self-published my debut collection two years ago and still trying to get that momentum going. Glad you enjoyed the poem. Thanks for reading.

[Esteban Morfín]

I would love to have you as a mentor!! Even more so considering that you also speak Spanish. I'll be sending you reading requests on my poems, then.

[emipoemi]

bring it on, buddy. I'd be more than happy to help.

[Kathy Van Kurin]

"The Gryphones"
emipoemi,
Two totems stand against the arch." Together they are single signal, like a word of definition.
End of second stanza: "as though in rivalry." Like a characteristic of the area they guard, a reminder that nothing is won without work.
First line: third stanza: "one, eagle-headed" "the other, lion headed"
I found this poem of yours a fitting epitaph to the work and effort involved in life and doing what is right in a world of chaos.
Blessings,
Kathy

[emipoemi]

your analysis goes beyond the bounds of the profound! It was not my intention to portray that, but now that you've pointed it out, I can't unsee it.

Thanks for reading! I'm glad you enjoyed it.

[Kathy Van Kurin]

Yes I did! Nice to hear back from you so soon too. Have a wonderful day.

[jazzymars]

professional one.. well punctuated.

[Raven Moonchild]

This poem is fantastic!!1 :D It has a brilliant flow and perfect imagery. :)

[emipoemi]

thank you so much :)

[Linda Marie Van Tassell]

There is a very classic feel to this poem, both relevant and a mystery. Well done!

[emipoemi]

Thanks you! I tend to give my work a classic air, and a tinge of mystery (particularly with respect to my pieces with serious undertones).

I'm glad you liked it.