The Tearful Maiden

Dare I leave behind the
Dreams of reckless youth?
Can I forget the images
To which I clung as
Reality held me down?
A knight in shining armor
Shall ride his fearless white steed
Into the night,
Searching for the tearful maiden.
He will save her from
The harsh world
Destroying her fragile soul.
He will show her that
Love exists and endures.
Will he?
Shall I open my eyes
Or hold onto the dream,
Desperately clinging to
Rapidly fading images?
Is it my fault for
Wanting the fantasy?
Should I have accepted less?
No, I can't.
The little girl shall
Cling to her tattered hopes,
However faintly their wings
Flutter against her heart --
Even if it means that I am
The Tearful Maiden
Evermore.

Danielle Baker
-2/26/97