H is for Hero

Two hero poems for you today, from my vault. A different view of your traditional hero.

Hero’s Journey

A magical quest

journey for the talisman

a clichéd hero

To Be a Hero?

A youth seeking guidance

kneels before the village matron.

She rests her withered hand

atop the boy's bowed head

"We found you in the woods --

a babe crying alone.

You welcomed our embrace

And we gave you a home.

Now your growing hands

ask for a sword;

your growing feet

wish to wander.

Dear child,

sometimes it's better not to question.

Knowledge may be power,

but the answers may distort your view.

If you pursue destiny

through the twilight forest,

you leave inexperienced, exposed

for destruction at your rival's whim.

Take heed to your elder now.

Don't take that first step 

to see the wizard;

once that path is chosen, you cannot return.

Embrace the life you have --

leave the world to its own devices."

And the boy lifts his head

to see this village, his home,

wondering if his purpose

is greater than self,

and decides if it is enough.