Elysium

Translated from the Irish Gaelic, "Parthas"

Here, where the pilgrimage ended, 

I found Paradise; 

No land of eternal youth, like fables once learned, 

But a sanctuary for those who paved the way 

In memory of friends lost to yesterday.

Here, roam boys once afraid to be, 

Now their own angels, peaceful and free. 

It is here an equal monarchy still reigns, 

Each one with a crown and colour to claim.

But no Elysium like this was made overnight,

Each stone, its own blend of sacrifice and soul; 

A people’s past laid down on a patchwork path, 

A foundation of a city, built to love and last.

Yet a heaven-like land is not without foe, 

Demons designed to destroy with pure rage 

And so, this realm needs each soldier’s song, 

To protect love’s land, that’s open to all.

-

The Castro, San Francisco 

December 9, 2018

Reviews

[Nipplegrinder]

This is absolutely beautiful. Makes me wish I could speak Gaelic. Splendidly penned.

[Scott De Buitléir]

Thank you very much! I've decided to name my next print collection after this poem, and each poem will have a translation, so it might lead you to learn some Irish Gaelic after all! Thank you for the support.

[Judy Emery/ Lilly Emery]

I love the way your poem flowed, it has away of giving my own emotions sadness and a touch of happiness, I true like what you have written hear. Please keep it up and thank you for sharing your talent.