Martin Schongauer, “The Temptation of St. Anthony” c. 1470-75
Temptations are ubiquitous and strong
A swarm of appetites is every soul
To some sort of demon, many belong
Tranquil serenity should be our goal
But it is quite difficult to achieve!
Resisting sin can result in smug pride
A bitter irony, fit to hearts cleave
Consider the Saint, demons on each side
Yet filled with calm, sweet and beatific
Impervious to the monstrous brigade
His spirit strengthened by rites hermetic
Deaf to their dark, corrosive serenade
Immune to forces diabolical
He is a model psychological
About the Creator
D. J. Reddall
I write because my time is limited and my imagination is not.
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Comments (5)
Oooo, I learnt a new word from you today, hermetic! Loved your poem!
I absolutely loved the last two lines! Perfectly written as always!
Masterful as always, D.J.! Love the philosophy and insight driving this piece :)
"Immune to forces diabolical. He is a model psychological." He's like I don't have time for this shit.
Great job! Love the painting you chose. Though I see the saint just saying “yeah, yeah, every %#%*#* day with these guys “