Verbal Visions

The Trophy

The Trophy


After years of toil
in an unforgiving sea
I have finally found her.
I have my prize

No one would believe me.
They laughed
told me she was just a myth
a story told by
drunken sailors.

But I knew better
And now have my proof
a testament to my
intellect and cunning

She is my trophy

In the darkness of this cove
she stares at me.
Her face, lovely and luminous
turns my way.
Her eyes reflect the
depth of ocean
and follow me around the room.
Although she cannot speak,
I can feel her plea for freedom.

As I look at her,
my glory fades and
my heart sinks.
I know she cannot live
outside of the sea.
And I am no killer.
My excitement at having caught her
turns to shame
I know I must let her go.

So, I loosen the net
And bid her to swim away.
She smiles at me and suddenly
I am alive again
feeling her joy
and reveling in having met her.

Her worth isn't measured
by holding her captive,
but in setting her free.
I may never have the accolades
of others
but a memory to cherish
forever.

That is my prize.