Chenoas Riddle

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Chenoa's Riddle

I heard the words the lady said;
Their meanings clear, with little doubt.
I answered where her statement led,
and soon was in a sparring bout.

"You cannot read my mind," said she.
"I never really thought I could."
"You don't know what I mean, you see."
"Then please explain it, if you would."

"I hate it when you condescend!"
"Oh please, just tell me what you say!
Lets bring this sparring to an end!"
She shook her head and turned away.

Her hair swung in a shim'ring arc,
like diamonds pouring from a pail,
with firelight mixing in the dark,
and starlight down each flick'ring trail.

I saw her graceful body go,
her long hair swinging past her waist;
Why must this gesture taunt me so?
So slow to come, to leave in haste.

From: The Beckoning Hand