My Papa's Waltz (2006)

Rendition inspired by Theodore Roethke's poem, "My Papa's Waltz". (drawing by me)

tell, tell me a story, and i'll love you forever.

sing me that sweet lullaby.
such melodic crooning brings notes that
fill my empty heart.
humming in soft tones, you try to lull me to sleep.

i'm still awake.
i'm still awake.

and so, you stroke my face and take me by the hand.
1,2,3 step
1,2,3, step
lifting me up ever so lightly
around, around, spinning about
prancing to your beat, promenading to your measure

motion's in blur - i can't keep up with your rhythm.
fatigued - legs turn limp - you whisper your favorite melody
trying to send me off into slumber.

there is a familiar sound ringing in my ears.
i can't get your tune out of my head.
i close my eyes, yet

i'm still awake.