In Nero’s private stage, Disaster was His audience. Rome mimics fallen Troy in play. What was reflected in Nero’s eyes when he sang of the swirling patterns of fire? When Rome was caught burning; When conspiring led to its fall.
Fire engulfed Rome with fiery teeth. The clouds hide or faint into black smoke. The skies bleed heavily with rust Its brassy color mixing with the *** of burning seas, like oceans melting
Could you not feel the sun’s weight? Now it is incomparable to Molten seas and softened lead!
Blood spilt from sea-point, waves wallow the cries Of the fallen. Like a bellowing sound marching Against caverns of ears, Copper soldiers Melt into clouds oozing with emotion, Shattering their now empty metal hearts, Hollow hearts that outlive the muteness.
It is awakened when Spark and light is absent.
(Paolo Jerome D. Cristobal / June 26, 2009 - Alabang)
2nd Prize Winner - POETRY CATEGORY - Cesar S. Tiangco Literary Awards 2010