THE DAUGHTER OF SOLOMON

For Lyrata. September 1992.

Borne on the desert wind comes the sweet scent of spice and sandal.
It lifts my spirit and tunes my soul like the strings of a harp.
I close my eyes and dream of my fathers palace, gleaming in the day’s heat
I long for the coolness of fountains, and the sound of my fathers voice
For I am the daughter of Solomon.

I lie within a tent of silk brought from the furthest cities of the East.
My cushions are scented with Spikenard , Jasmine, and Musk.
My skin is soothed with oils from Arabia and fragrant with Attar of Rose.
In all my fathers kingdom there is none so close to the heart of the king.
For I am the daughter of Solomon.

I am the colour of the dusky grape that takes its sweetness from the sun.
My hair is the colour of a raven’s wing , soft as a whisper in the night.
My eyes hold secrets no other woman has taught to man, nor ever will.
Within my mouth lies honey for the taking, if you dare to seek it.
For I am the daughter of Solomon.

No man has known me or felt the warm touch of my hand upon his face.
I am a gift fit only for an emperor of my father’s choosing . In all my life, not one moment will I have alone to savour the silence within.
The endless chatter around me deadens my thoughts, and I rage silently
For I am the daughter of Solomon.

Not for me the wise discourse of learned minds, the freedom to think.
Only the language of the silken couch and the watchful eyes of others.
But I look beyond this time to a distant sunset in a distant land.
For one wild sweet moment I know the joy of freedom and I am content.
For I am the daughter of Solomon.

I know the course that has been set for me in this fierce land.of mine.
I will abide and live within the silken chains my destiny decrees.
I know my time will come and in that far land will lift my head and say,
I am black and I am beautiful, I am wise and full of love
for I am the daughter of Solomon.