[Redemore 22 August 1485]
Misjudged by many of my peers,
betrayed by those in whom
I placed my trust. Today
I sift through memory,
acknowledge scheming in my blood -
the unquenched thirst
of generations. Betrayal
led me to accept defeat
out of the very jaws
of victory. I clung
to pride.
***************
A Judas multiplied
was on my side,
in faith, I thought them
little Christs. Their company
made for me
a lonely ride.
*******************
The wetlands bogged me down,
Canuted by the rapid-turning tide.
Today I made myself
a pawn
for Tudors grasping hand -
Today I died a King,
upheld the remnants
of my dignity.
*********************
My crown was no more theft
than fate contrives
to thrust on monarchy itself -
Today I have my pride.
Malcolm Evison
