Narcissus Speaks Poem by Tom Billsborough

By this still pond, I saw a nymph
Rising towards me from the water's depths.
Her lips were parted and mine also
As I reached over to respond.
But as we drew near
Her face would fade below,
The pale jade water
As I remained above
Pining again for my unrequited love.
I cried for her but only heard
A mocking echo from the distant rocks,
Repeating every utterance I made
These notes now out of tune with my desire
Bringing discord to my ears.
I fast.
And am now pale as grass
In a hot parched June
My pulse is failing and I fade away,
And since I stay,
my breath slows down
In this soliloquy of death.