The Splendor of Rome

A young woman meets the love of her life on a trip to Rome.

The Splendor of Rome

I finally went on the trip of a lifetime.
Italian splendors soon to be mined.
The travel guide was carefully marked.
Off to paradise, I now embarked.

At first sight I was quite unprepared.
The photos I studied did not compare.
Each sculpture in splendor increased.
Followed by a breathing masterpiece.

This Roman god turned from a fountain.
His attention to me, I fell in love then.
I couldn't let this moment pass!
I saw in his eyes a love that would last.

We both started forward not a minute to waste!
So close we were, his lips within taste.
"Come sei bella."
"Voglio vederti stasera."

"How beautiful" he said in such a way.
And then voice trembling, next he did say.
Please senorita, "I long to see you tonight."
And tomorrow, thereafter 'til the end of all life.

My response I stuttered, one phase did I know.
"I don't speak Italiano."
Confused, disappointed my love turned away.
My lack of Italian now rues the day.

Tina B
Submitted for the "Writer's Cramp" contest on 2/28/2011
Line count: 24
Prompt: Story or Poem: Why it's important to speak another language.