This poem was inspired by the story of Medea. She was a witch in Greek mythology who had fallen in love with Jason of Corinth and had used her magic to help him to obtain the Golden Fleece for her father. During this trek, she had murdered her own brother, as well as gained revenge for the death of Jason's father--by tricking King Pelias's daughters into killing him in order to regain his youth. In the end, Jason would betray Medea, choosing to marry a princess of Corinth in order to secure himself a seat on the royal throne. This poem is my interpretation of Medea's thoughts and feelings.
Everything he wanted, I gave it all to
him
At his request, I would give my soul to him
And this is the thanks that he gives to me
Breaks my heart and leaves me gloomy
I prevented his defeat on many a time
Because I thought his love was sublime
I made sure that nothing did him harm
He would be dead if not for my charm
To show my love, to prove there was no other
I betrayed my father and killed my brother
But so is the way of Love's infection
My devotion lived only for his affection
Now I am alone to reap what I've sown
Marooned, exiled--I cannot return home
I gave him two sons, but what does he want?
A throne and prestige for himself to flaunt
My feelings were not made for him to kill
Now, my heart is empty and void to fill
I shall now do to him what he's done to me
Curse his conscience so he'll never be free.
Sherelle Ealy
Copyright ©2003 Sherelle Ealy