Conception

Embryological Study by Leonardo da Vinci

courage is fathered

in a rank wretched bed

where masculine fear

lies down with his gorgon

in a choking embrace

expelling her peril

till foul becomes fair

and soiled linen creases

unfold in bright riots

of fortified flowers

that girdle the breast

with petals of armor

and freshen the beard

with fragrance of dignity

cleansing the air

for the first natal breath

of the manchild valor

now growing proud wings

in the belly where fear

hid his auspicious seed

 

 

(originally posted April 2013)