Birthday

I

You were born, I recall,
on the same day 
that snow melted,
and blossoms bloomed.

My heart burst for you.
Your glowing cheeks, 
your radiant smile,
your shimmering emerald eyes.

Your mouth formed a perfect 'O' 
as you sang 
with the dove and the nightingale 
and the thrush.

II

The day you were born
was the day a curtain 
fell over my world.

Your eyes emitted a dull green glare.
Your lips tinged the colour of poison.
Your hair the colour of death.

My ears rang, my head throbbed -
your wail pierced 
the still world.

I still wait.