Orpheus Confesses to Eurydice by Sujata Bhatt

Below, you’ll find the poem ‘Orpheus Confesses to Eurydice’ by Sujata Bhatt.

It was a lack of faith.

I admit it. I didn’t believe enough

in you or even in the power

of my song. I needed constant reassurance.

Yes, I saw how the Furies wept

as I sang slower, softer – Time stopped for me –

still, I didn’t think they’d let you go.

I didn’t think you’d be free to follow me.

And so I looked back

wondering: were you really there?

I’ve caught the snake

that killed you – I keep him

alive. He’s become a sort of pet –

such a small viper, and so supple –

my last connection to you. And his brightness:

eyes, skin – how he shimmers in the sun – keeps me alert

and reminds me at times of your brightness:

the sun in your hair, the jewels around your neck.

At first, of course, I thought of revenge.

I thought of hurting the snake,

of throwing him into a fire.

But I hesitated and now I’ve grown fond of him.

(Full poem unable to be reproduced due to the copyright)

Sujata Bhatt

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