Middle-earth Poetry (Silmarillion version) by Zdenka

Erendis to Aldarion

Erendis has doubts over Aldarion’s courtship. (Sapphics.)

If the King’s son wishes to wed Erendis,
let not joy be followed by later sorrow.
I would fain, Aldarion, trust your promise,
yet my heart doubts you.

To the kingly line, longer life is given;
you may spend the years as you wish, unthinking.
But to me a far lesser span is granted;
I cannot tarry.

Will you give me all of your heart as husband?
Can you put aside the sea-longing for me?
Will I, half a widow, wait for your coming
through the long seasons?

Love me or do not – I’ll have no half-measures.
I am not a game for your times of leisure.
‘Tis no game to me; if you truly love me,
love me in earnest.

Chapter End Notes

Written for Back to Middle-earth Month 2012. Prompts O64: "Book Title: The Importance of Being Earnest" and "Poetic Forms: Sapphic."