Joyce Mandel Walter
Venus and Mars
After Botticelli's painting, National Gallery London
When you tore off your armour
and gave me the look
I knew I was in trouble.
To hell with politics, your platform
chest spoke volumes as you pressed me,
impressed me against that tree,
that gnarled oak complete with wasps
and ears so keen I could sense
the whole army tuning in.
There was something so Hollywood,
so Errol Flynn in your urgency -
almost mythical. No time for formalities.
No time to lay down red satin or eat
the salmon sandwiches.
You nearly tore my chiffon dress
as you pitched it above my waist
like a parachute, efficiently completing
your mission like some army manoeuvre.
Party political adverts last longer.
Now the wasps and I watch
your chest rise and fall in sleep.
Mars disarmed on the lawn,
limp, naked
and the Venus in me pensive,
wondering about stings, victories.
Page(s) 16
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