After Sappho

Pearls, emeralds, carnelian, tourmaline—

I weight ears with green bits
of life, slip an artist stone
of reddish brown onto a finger, tuck
a slice of violet close to my heart,
where fatigue threatens.

A pearl engagement ring hangs
from a golden chain, gently worn—
I gather my histories like blooms.

Pearls, emeralds, carnelian, tourmaline—

Invitations to the Muse, will she answer
a silent lyre? What if I add an amethyst
charm from the hills of Lesbos?

Or should I simply
pick up my pen
and begin?

ink, papyrus, time, patience