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DreamEvil
Member Elite

since 1999-06-22

Posts 2396

0 posted 1999-07-12 06:31 AM

Who was this man
called Orpheus?
What was his power,
what meant his name?
What was his Glory?
What was his fame?

He made his fortune
by playing the lyre,
such was his skill
that his playing alone
could inspire ire
or quell a man's fear.

The beautiful Eurydice
was his lovely
young bride,
the source
of his inspiration
and constant pride.

One day,
as Orpheus
was away
and Eurydice
began to bathe,
she was spied upon
by a fighter,
not a page,
nor sultry knave.

Seeing his face
she turns to run,
fast
to escape his grasp.
Stumbling,
she falls into a pit
and is bitten
by an asp.

Homeward
Orpheus made his way,
playing a gentle tune
designed to make
the fair Eurydice,
his beloved,
swoon.

Heading to the stream
to wash the road
from his dusty flesh,
he spies a flash of color.
He holds Eurydice's dress.

Looking around,
he sees she's not there,
searching,
he comes upon the pit.
A trembling fear
grips
his suddenly hammering heart
as he looks into it.

He sees her torn
and broken body,
twisted and snakebit,
strewn across the bottom
of the bloody,
cursed pit.

A low pitched moan
erupted from him,
he lifted his lyre
and began a dirge,
A lament so powerful
and strong,
it held the forest
in thrall
as the notes
began to merge.

Halting his song,
Orpheus gathered his love
with such resolve,
he cowed even the Asp.
Holding her close,
tears
pouring from his eyes,
a plan his fevered mind
did grasp.

Dawn found Orpheus
with his eyes dry
as his heart's blood was bled.
Marshalling his courage
and steeling his resolve,
he started his journey,
to the land of the dead.

Approaching the Styx
he searched out
the great horn
to call out the ferry.
Booming out
it's lonesome moan,
the horn fit the mood
of that place,
austere,
scary.

Out of the mist
comes Charon,
the ferryman,
his voice
a grinding rasp.
"The living
have no business here,
only the dead
may pass!"

In answer
to Charon's challenge,
Orpheus did play
a song so poignant,
so clear.
Charon
bowed his head long
and thought
of his own loss
as he shed
a crystal tear.

At last,
Charon let him pass,
and begin the journey
he was coming to dread.
He stepped off the ferry
and into the tunnel
leading into Hades'
land of the dead.

He came upon Cerebrus,
three-headed guardian
of the gates of Hell.
Snarling,
he came to his feet.
"Only the dead may pass,
you know that as well!"

Orpheus' lyre
spilled out a happy,
joyful,
playful song,
Cerebrus
did not retreat.
Smiling
at the memory
of times past,
knowing his defeat,
Cerebrus
lay his heads
at Orpheus' feet.

Passing the gates,
stumbling along
in the murky gray,
the dimly lit path,
the only saving grace.
The wailing
of the tormented souls
the only music
allowed
in this dreary,
sad place.

Coming upon
great Hades' throne room,
Orpheus stopped
to steel his resolve.
Remembering Eurydice,
his reason for being,
caused the trepidation
to dissolve.

As he approached,
Hades said,
"This is no place for the living,
only the dead.
Not even for a mortal
such as you,
Orpheus,
who's heart's blood
is bled.

Why have you come
to the land of the dead?",
dread Hades demanded.
"If it is for your lover,
Eurydice,
then you leave
less than empty-handed."

His power and purpose,
confident and sure,
Orpheus began a song
brightly lit and gay,
So powerful it lifted
the agony of the dead,
lighting a place
that has never known
the light of day.

In answering peal
the dead joined his song,
as did Cerebrus
and Charon too.
Stony Hades,
shed nary a tear,
until his lady
Persephone
beckoned him near.

"Give him back his love,
I beseech you,
Hades,
my husband,
lover and Lord.
His courage and love,
overcoming
great Cerebrus,
surely deserve
some reward."

Then a single,
black tear
rolled down
Hades cheek.
"Know I do this,
not for thee.
Only and solely
for the brightness
within my dark heart,
dearest Persephone."

"Return whence you came,
leave my great hall,
to the realm of the living
she will follow,
look not behind you
or you will lose her
to your own misgiving."

Turning to go,
Orpheus thanked
Persephone
and Cerebrus
for their faith.
Charon himself
assured him
that behind him
was Eurydice's wraith.

All the trip back
to the light,
Orpheus
found the need for strength
to fight the urge
to turn
and see her.
Even knowing
that doing so
would be tantamount
to staging her murder.

At last,
Orpheus
broke out
of the darkening dim
and into
brightly lit day.
Spinning on his heels,
she's only half
out of the hole,
he cries
as she fades away.

Screaming aloud
an impotent cry
of pain and rage,
he began to play
a song,
So mighty and powerful,
the Earth heard it's call,
all the way
to Hades dark throng.

The Kraken awoke,
hearing it's call,
lashing his tail,
waves began crashing
against the sand.
Mountains rose
at his command
and against
their nature,
began gnashing
at the land.

The skies darkened
with an
approaching apocalypse
of ravening wind.
So great was his song,
the Gods
huddled in fear,
sensing
their terrible end.

Seeing what his grief
had wrought,
Orpheus
stopped
at the last note.
Even engulfed
in grief and rage,
he could not destroy
and rail against hope.

Casting himself
and his lyre
into the sea,
some say the lyre
waits
for one such as us.
One with talent and rage,
to pick up the lyre
and play the last note
of the Last Song
of Orpheus.

©1999 DreamEvil

------------------
I am not responsible for how you choose to interpret what I say.
DreamEvil©

[This message has been edited by DreamEvil (edited 07-12-99).]

[This message has been edited by DreamEvil (edited 08-04-99).]

[This message has been edited by DreamEvil (edited 10-16-1999).]

~one voice~
Senior Member

since 1999-07-08

Posts 664
Billings, MT USA

1 posted 1999-07-12 07:56 AM

Oh, I am left breathless... This is the reason poetry was created. You are definitely a natural. God blessed you with this talent, and you use it so very well. DreamEvil, don't you EVER believe differently.

------------------
~one voice~

For Myself, I live,
Live intensely and am fed by life,
and my value, whatever it be, is in my own kind of expression of that. *Henry James

DreamEvil
Member Elite

since 1999-06-22

Posts 2396

2 posted 1999-07-12 08:02 AM

Thank you, my dear, thank you very much. My masterpiece I think, so far. The first draft was lost to time. I rewrote it, as at last, I regained my rhyme.

wayoutwalt
Member Elite

since 1999-06-22

Posts 4870
TEXAS (it's all big)

3 posted 1999-07-12 08:12 AM

woah buddy this is really good you are so knowledgable haven't heard this tale spun so well in a long time...walt

Moonlight
Member

since 1999-06-25

Posts 105
Auburn, Alabama USA

4 posted 1999-07-12 08:18 AM

You've done it again! This was really great. Great story telling and rhyme. I never knew this story before the poem

Never apologize for length when its good!

~m~

Tim
Senior Member

since 1999-06-08

Posts 1794

5 posted 1999-07-12 10:52 AM

Bravo!

leelew
Member

since 1999-07-10

Posts 89
highmount,ny,usa

6 posted 1999-07-12 01:50 PM

Perfect!

DreamEvil
Member Elite

since 1999-06-22

Posts 2396

7 posted 1999-07-12 02:11 PM

My masterpiece (so far) and my gift to the forum. Thank you, everyone.

Balladeer

Administrator

Member Empyrean

since 1999-06-05

Posts 25505
Ft. Lauderdale, Fl USA

8 posted 1999-07-12 05:35 PM

No adjective that I can think of would be worthy of this poem. As large as the vocabulary is, there are still things, or feelings that words have not yet been created to describe. That is how I feel about this poem. Aside from the fact that I am a student of mythology, you have captured the complete essense of this story in perfect detail and in a wonderful poetic display. I do not expect to see a better poem on this website, mine included. I applaud the hard work and effort that went into its creation and want you to know it was definitely worthwhile. You have represented yourself well. Thank you so much.

Andrew Scott
Member Elite

since 1999-06-24

Posts 2558
Redlands,CA,USA

9 posted 1999-07-12 07:22 PM

You have my deepest respect for the wonder you have laid before us. I knew of Orpheus and his ill fated journey prior to my reading, but never have I had it portraid is such vivid detail. By far one of the best offerings to be found here. Well deserving of the title "Masterpiece."

Poet deVine

Administrator

Member Seraphic

since 1999-05-26

Posts 22612
Hurricane Alley

10 posted 1999-07-12 07:53 PM

I hung on every word...forgetting at one point that I was reading poetry, so involved was I in the story. And isn't that what great storytelling is all about? To see beyond the form - poetry or prose - is a compliment to the author! You have given us a magnificent work of art here. Thank you!

DreamEvil
Member Elite

since 1999-06-22

Posts 2396

11 posted 1999-07-12 09:53 PM

Balladeer, you blew my mind, words of praise like yours are very hard ro find.
Mr.Scott, thank you much for your clear opinion, it will influence each further, poetic decision.
Lady deVine, you know I pass the time, pining with desire for your romantic fire.

Truly this praise is my masterpiece, not the work that inspired it.

Alwye

Moderator

Member Elite

since 1999-06-16

Posts 3850
In the space between moments

12 posted 1999-07-12 10:21 PM

Well, DreamEvil, what can I say that hasn't already been so perfectly said??? This poem is phenomenal, and it truly does deserve the title of masterpiece....what a gift you possess.

------------------
*Krista Knutson*

Gentle Soul
Member

since 1999-07-12

Posts 273
Vinton,Ohio USA

13 posted 1999-07-12 11:47 PM

What can I say Dreamevil? You are the best all around.. a sweet guy, with a golden heart, an awesome thinker.. and great support.

------------------
Gënt£ë¤§°û£

DreamEvil
Member Elite

since 1999-06-22

Posts 2396

14 posted 1999-07-13 12:39 PM

Thank you dear. Who would think that one day the Dark would counsel the Light on purity?

IsabelleSkye
Member

since 1999-06-27

Posts 253

15 posted 1999-07-13 01:40 AM

This is so beautiful, I was at once, amazed and awed by your talent. What a great story to weave in such a poetic way. My hat is off to you my Gallant Knight.
Izzy

------------------
Heaven is under our feet as well as over our heads.....Henry David Thoreau

orpheus
Junior Member

since 1999-07-10

Posts 30
Portugal

16 posted 1999-07-13 01:46 AM

Orpheus and Eurydice. An incredible love. And you and your incredible poem. What more can I say?

DreamEvil
Member Elite

since 1999-06-22

Posts 2396

17 posted 1999-07-13 02:16 AM

Thank you dear Izzy, your praise makes me giddy with the thought of what have happened tonight.

Orpheus, I'm glad you enjoy this tale of your namesake.

tori
Senior Member

since 1999-06-18

Posts 520
Mechanicsville, Maryland, USA

18 posted 1999-07-13 11:57 AM

Absolutely Brilliant, It took me to a place so real
I felt the bit, the loss and the rage, yet with tender love
Truly a Master Piece
"I'm thinking"
Applause, Applause, Applause!!

Only suggestion : Remove the apology for the length of this is...
Not one word too many, not one word short

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
If with pen in hand my words make you think
Then I've not wasted one drop of ink.

azblond
Senior Member

since 1999-07-01

Posts 637
The Steamy Desert

19 posted 1999-07-13 02:04 PM

My Dearest Dream...I am breathless still. I must agree with one voice...never ever doubt your ability. You have shown what talent is, you make me feel like a child standing next to someone who has perfected the craft here today. I bow in awe to you, my eyes filled still with tears, my breathing shallow, for I have read a piece done by one of the greats. Bravo, my friend, Bravo.

------------------
For sometimes when the Darkness falls, we must surrender, take what is ours, and give what we can, and always remember love is somewhere waiting...

Gentle Soul
Member

since 1999-07-12

Posts 273
Vinton,Ohio USA

20 posted 1999-07-13 05:13 PM

Yes.. who knew? but thank you for the couseling!

------------------
Gënt£ë¤§°û£

DreamEvil
Member Elite

since 1999-06-22

Posts 2396

21 posted 1999-07-13 05:47 PM

Tori, your opinion means deal, solely for who suggested it,azblond, where have you been, my inconstant friend?
Gentle Soul, read "The Bridge", iy is for you.

azblond
Senior Member

since 1999-07-01

Posts 637
The Steamy Desert

22 posted 1999-07-14 02:36 AM

This Must Not Be Buried...Dream...I love this so much, I cannot get it out of my mind. Once again let me say, What a beautiful way to tell a trajic story!

------------------
For sometimes when the Darkness falls, we must surrender, take what is ours, and give what we can, and always remember love is somewhere waiting...

Cinderella
Member

since 1999-06-23

Posts 152
Arizona

23 posted 1999-07-14 02:51 AM

No apologies necessary for the length of this marvelous poem, truly a piece of work!

Kelly
Member

since 1999-07-03

Posts 145

24 posted 1999-07-14 03:12 AM

Superior, excellent, perfect etc. etc.
It was always obvious that you are a great writer but this surpasses everything else. You have really outdone yourself. I think it's too short and you should take Tori's advise and dump the apology.

DreamEvil
Member Elite

since 1999-06-22

Posts 2396

25 posted 1999-07-14 03:26 AM

I've been high on life since the first reply. Thank you all.

Nan

Administrator

Member Seraphic

since 1999-05-20

Posts 21191
Cape Cod Massachusetts USA

26 posted 1999-07-14 06:46 AM

Stupendous!! Ebullient!! - there are a couple of good adjectives...

You're a welcome asset to this forum, DreamEvil...

DreamEvil
Member Elite

since 1999-06-22

Posts 2396

27 posted 1999-07-14 09:08 PM

Thank you again, Nan. It DOES mean alot coming from the seasoned veterans of the poetic struggle.

Ominous
Member

since 1999-07-04

Posts 68
Canada

28 posted 1999-07-16 01:32 AM

Amazingly breathtaking.
I am a fan of mythology and of music and this masterpiece really touched not only my heart but the depths of my soul.
You inspire me Dream, you the master, and I the pupil.
Congrats.

DreamEvil
Member Elite

since 1999-06-22

Posts 2396

29 posted 1999-07-16 02:38 AM

The response has been mindblowing. Thank you, Ominous.

Nicole
Senior Member

since 1999-06-23

Posts 1835
Florida

30 posted 1999-07-30 02:31 AM

I am speechless, and breathless, with tears standing in my eyes.

Rita
Member

since 1999-07-19

Posts 55
Danville Va. 24540

31 posted 1999-07-31 02:02 AM

This is my favorite. I am amazed how you write with such beauty. I raced to hear the end, while in awe in every verse.....wonderful...

------------------
"And the day came, where the risk to remain tight in a bud, was more painful than the risk it took to blossom"

RainbowGirl
Member Elite

since 1999-07-31

Posts 3023
United Kingdom

32 posted 1999-07-31 04:21 AM

Absolutely superb!

------------------
You give but little when you give of your possessions. It is when you give of yourself that you truly give.

Ladycat

Senior Member

since 1999-07-05

Posts 782
At the edge and a doorway,TX

33 posted 1999-07-31 06:51 AM

Once again, a wonderful piece that has sweep me off my feet.. You definately have a masterpiece there...

Love,
Lady

------------------
Live in my world just once and you'll find yourself enraptured.

Masked Intruder

Moderator

Senior Member

since 1999-05-23

Posts 1231
Near golden sunsets

34 posted 1999-07-31 11:28 AM

I've now decided that I should pay attention to what is being posted. I almost missed something great here. I've got a whole list of adjectives that I save for occasions like these. Let's see...sublime, splendiferous, splendorous, opulent, slambang!!!!!!

------------------
Even with a lot of imagination, does it make the story less true?

DreamEvil
Member Elite

since 1999-06-22

Posts 2396

35 posted 1999-07-31 10:22 PM

Thank you,again.

Gentle Soul
Member

since 1999-07-12

Posts 273
Vinton,Ohio USA

36 posted 1999-08-01 03:42 AM

wow Dream.. 35 replies!! hehe.. well.. 36 now.. obvious an AWESOME piece of art brother hehe

------------------
Gënt£ë¤§°û£

Phantom
Junior Member

since 1999-08-03

Posts 18

37 posted 1999-08-03 06:04 AM

Absolutely Beautifully!

------------------
Open your heart to the Darkness,set your soul free.

Sunshine

Administrator

Member Empyrean

since 1999-06-25

Posts 63354
Listening to every heart

38 posted 1999-08-03 02:23 PM

Wonderfully graceful. Thank you.

------------------
© KRJ 22 Jul 99
Sunshine
Words will always express our feelings true. ~~~ KRJ
Look, then, into thine heart, and write ~~~ Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

Lucie
Senior Member

since 1999-06-20

Posts 1077
Houston

39 posted 1999-08-03 05:06 PM

What can I say that hasn't been said..

I like it a lot.
Back to the top.

suthern

Member Seraphic

since 1999-07-29

Posts 20723
Louisiana

40 posted 1999-08-03 08:33 PM

I'm at a loss for words... awesome!!! But I must agree with those who say the apology at the beginning for the length should be removed. When the read is this good, when the words are used so well, who's counting? *G*

Michael

Moderator

Member Rara Avis

since 1999-08-13

Posts 7666
California

41 posted 1999-08-18 11:22 PM

Masterpiece may be an understatement, DreamEvil.

This is a true Epic.

Michael

DreamEvil
Member Elite

since 1999-06-22

Posts 2396

42 posted 1999-10-16 05:28 PM

'Tis the oldest of my lengthy works, but work well it does.

------------------
Now and forever, my heart hears ~one voice~.
DreamEvil©

caroline
Senior Member

since 1999-08-16

Posts 1218
http://members.xoom.com/belladona123/index.htm

43 posted 1999-10-16 08:28 PM

This piece proves you deserving of the title of Wordsmith, my dear. It is magnificent.

------------------
"Tread softly, for I have spread my dreams under your feet"~~William Butler Yeats

Christopher

Moderator

Member Rara Avis

since 1999-08-02

Posts 8296
Purgatorial Incarceration

44 posted 1999-10-20 02:20 AM

Brother, sad I am that I had previously missed this!
But heartened that I stumbled upon it!
The magnificence of this by far outreaches any of your other works, and that is saying galaxies!

thursdayschild
Member

since 1999-07-01

Posts 169
Houston, Tx.

45 posted 1999-12-17 01:31 AM

WOW!

Skyfyre
Senior Member

since 1999-08-15

Posts 1906
Sitting in Michael's Lap

46 posted 1999-12-17 03:32 AM

This was better than any mythology book I have ever read, and believe me, I have read more than a few. Your talent is astounding!

As far as the length is concerned, more is better, so long as the verse is good! I was swept through this like wildfire, and found myself disappointed when it ended so soon!

--Kess

You cannot choose the way of your death, but the path you choose will determine its own end.

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