Elio in the Gaze of Oliver

Modern poetry modern verse contemporary poetry contemporary verse modern poem contemporary poem

How slim his shoulders since he has not filled

To manhood yet, or even started there

Except inside his heart with secrets thrilled

That only manhood knows with armpit hair

And hair above his yet to thicken thighs,

And body hair, a smattering on his calves.

Another part is pressing on in size

But isn’t where it wants, just there by halves

As months go by in sweat and heat.  The lash

On upper eyelid has a meaning thick

With lust in those who see it.  They crash,

Not fall, in love with need to light his wick.

  That candle knows much more than wax and fire.

    That candle waits warm hard as youth’s desire.