Michael Copeland’s most recent poem to appear here was “Walk Like a Man” (April 2019). 

Wishing and Hoping
By Michael Copeland

Sad eyes long for a glimpse
of the fair maiden in silhouette
‘gainst the isinglass, with star
glints in her auburn hair.  

Such a vision is not to be
as my heart of hearts sits,
chained in mystery,
hazel eyes down turned to life. 

I move close to her and stroke
the senses hoping to engage
the joy and magic of long ago,
a rekindle of passion and love.  

But again she rebuffs my touch,
unsure of its true intent,
willing to seek affection
from a distant suitor.