(a French rondeau)

I wonder why our hearts ache with desire,
Pumping madly, never seeming to tire
When it is clear we are alone,
Sinking to depths just like a stone,
Yet we let ourselves go, dancing on a wire.

Have we found a reservoir of fire,
That would have us lying upon the pyre,
Chanting our heartaches in a deep tone?
I wonder why.

I am bogged down, dragged in the mire,
Called every name including a liar;
From madness I steal as if taking a loan,
While pressure bears down as I lay prone,
Heart squeezing with pain I seem to inspire;
I wonder why.

(c) 2017 Miriam Ruff All Rights Reserved