Haunting Melodies
by Borgin
Today, while the blossoms still cling to the vine
I'll taste your strawberries,
I'll drink your sweet wine
A million tomorrows will all pass
away
'Err I forget all the joys that
are mine, today.
The haunting melodies dance merrily over Jolanna's grave. Jo was only the age of three – why had she died of such a dreaded, terrible illness? Even Adelinna had escaped the terror – and she is a very sickly child herself. Why had Jolanna died?
I understand that, one day, everyone must pass through this world to reach the next – the realms of peace and serenity. But what is peaceful and serene to a young child? The answer – nothing.
And Mamma is lying on her pallet outside, in the city air. She's insisted on being outside, with her family around her. Mamma's a full believer in living life to the fullest. And she's a strong lady, as well.
Us children, we are crowding around her. The pox that once enveloped her skin has left, but the fever continues to rise.
Orphaned youth are gathered in circles
on the streets, singing, Ring around the rosy, a pocket full of posy. Ashes, ashes, we all fall down!
Mamma breathes her last, heavy breath, and closes her eyes forever.
But always will I remember Mamma and Jolanna. Both were strong, despite their ages. And both taught me lessons. They taught me to be free.
Mamma, Jolanna, I whisper softly, I love you.-finis 1/1-
This is a short little fic, taking place during the blue pox epidemic (Briar's Book). Please review with constructive criticism. Thanks!
Oh, and the songs - I have no clue who wrote the first song, except that it is sung at the camp I go to. The second song is "Ring Around the Rosy", which originated during the Black Death (the disease that killed much of Europe). I found it fitting to go in here.