Checkmate

Your eyes drill the Rook as your hand hovers, 

Looking for the perfect move. 

The Queen remains unaltered

Yet poised to strike when I least expect her. 

I have to keep an eye on that one. 

Our eyes never meet during this tournament. 

Perhaps it's best that way. 

I fear my plan may surrender itself

Should you take a moment to inspect my gaze. 

The perfect silence is broken

With the signature clearing of your throat, 

A sure sign that the gears of your mind are grinding -- 

Synonymous with my doom. 

Your right hand rises to support your cheek

As you c**k your head and survey the board yet again. 

Yes, my time has truly come. 

I pause for a moment as I realize this game is us. 

If I dared explain, you would most certainly agree with me. 

The calm before the storm;

Utter ignorance on my part until it was too late;

My plans crumbling under your moves, 

None of which are wasted or used lightly. 

This is who you are. 

I know now you were just what I needed. 

I'm stronger because of it. 

I would say thank you, but the tournament continues. 

You finally move the Bishop within range of my King. 

I feel my face flush slightly 

As I accept the gravity of the move. 

It's over and I didn't even see it coming. 

Yes, this game truly means more than just a lonely Bishop

Toppling my King. 

Author's Note

As you might be able to tell, I enjoy the extended metaphors. For a few reasons, really.

One being simply that I like the way they sound. I think the intertwining of a normally inanimate subject into the human experience/condition is fascinating. Secondly, I like it because I feel like my writing really flows well in that form.

Once again, the extended metaphor poem turned out to be one of my favorites.

Please leave your thoughts!

Reviews

[ChaoticSoul]

I also enjoy extended metaphors and this is done beautifully. It's not over the top, nor is it too little of an explanation. You use excellent word choices and everything transitions so clearly. I can see all the images you vividly create and feel the tension between the lines. I really enjoyed reading this and think it is written wonderfully!