Chiaroscuro
Each nuance drawn defines new depths
intensifies embellished flesh:
majestic guests in common dark
their lordly lanterns burning stark
discerning curves accenting edge
asserting windows, fountains, ledge
where mirrored marbled columns fade
and shadows mask this masquerade
and blushing duchess coyly waits
as glassy necklace overstates
and chandeliers shall domineer
this ambiance of lofty halls
dividing dancers, floral walls
from blasting bands and subtle calls
to slip outside this sharpened night
and sigh by muted lunar light
near silhouettes of weaving trees
past stars too far for dreams or pleas.
Chiaroscuro © Copyright 2021, Robert J. Tiess.
View this poem at AllPoetry.com
90 words. Beautiful Words and Splendid Diction prompt challenge - link:
https://allpoetry.com/contest/2748523-Beautiful-Words-and-Splendid-Diction-
Like almost all of my poems, this is carefully written to be read aloud. I hope you enjoy reading this.
More about chiaroscuro...
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chiaroscuro
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First version of this poem:
Chiaroscuro
Tonalities dimension depths
to vivify quiescent flesh
which promenades across the dark
with lithesome light burned bright and stark
discerning curves preferred to edge
before long windows and a ledge
as mirrored marbled columns fade
and shadows mask this masquerade
where blushing countess glides to wait
while dress and tresses scintillate
neath chandeliers that domineer
this atmosphere of umbral halls
dividing dance from blazoned walls
and brazen band from subtle calls
to slip outside this outlined night
and lose your sighs to lunar light
by silhouettes of weaving trees
and stars too far for clarities.
Submitted: April 27, 2020