Mermaids

In days once old

on waters cold

young ship-bound lads, their lust repressed, 

brewed feverish dreams

of lovely things

upon the waves' unrest.

With honey-glazed scales

voluptuous tails

long knotted hair 'round eyes glass-green, 

these ocean fey

on sandbeds lay

to fill such fantasies. 

The sailors hence

desired nymphs,

forsaking maids on solid ground -

for 'tis easier

to love the sea,

and blame it when you drown.