Irrepressible Icarus

Dawn dramatically staged her entrance

with spectacular, glittering brilliance

for all around to see…

if they cared to do so.

*

Celebrating her arrival were father and son

Daedalus hoped with Icarus, their escape would be won

by the impossibility of flight mastered on

cleverly crafted wings of wax coated feathers.

*

Today they’d escape King Minos and Crete!

Up, out of the palace to freedom so sweet

But first one final review of their plan

Timely reminder of the dangers at hand.

*

Icarus — my son — stay well above the ocean, lest your wings get wet

Steer clear of the sun, for the wax, it will melt… Don’t forget!

With a careless nod, Icarus launched gracefully into the air

Together they flew up, up and over the palace wall.

*

Euphorically rejoicing in their flawless escape

reckless Icarus made his fatal mistake

skimming too close to the sea was no threat

but the dazzling sun drew him higher and higher yet.

*

Heedless of his father’s frantic call

wax coated wings disintegrated… he began to fall

down, down to the murky depths of the sea

where he thrashed and flailed about, futilely.

*

Helplessly Daedalus gazed down at his son with regret

wondered forlornly how Icarus could so quickly forget

ignore his dire warnings

pay the ultimate price.

*

Inspired Poppy’s Greek Mythology Prompts: Icarus