Mysterious maiden made from iron castings
seemingly meant to display resilience
though also evidently revealing self-affliction
to induce pity from her would-be suitors.
This temptress acts as a torture apparatus,
killing knights trying to save her from danger
by slowly weakening their defenses until
they willingly succumb to her confinement.
Mercy is the last sentiment that should be
bestowed on those who seek out tragedy as
a cause for attention and who wish misfortune
upon themselves for selfish validation.
Author notes
Inspired by Plath's Ennui- first stanza and the definition of an "iron maiden" as a torture device: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Iron_maiden_(torture_device)
A contest entry
- ennui by ellipsist.
450 points, ended July 15, 2008, 8 entries
• next poem in this contest, remove from contest
Comments
1 - 5 of 5
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love the take on this - love the personification of the iron maiden... I like this piece and it's formatting and lack of rhyme... there is so much about this piece to enjoy
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all I could think of was an iron maiden as I was reading this so I was jolted when I then saw your author notes... They are pretty creepy (I have seen a couple around in this area of Germany where I live; there is even a torture museum. I wonder if Plath had that same chance in England.)
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that last stanza summed up the thoughts of this poem very well. And what you spoke is so true. I enjoyed it immensely.
*HID* -
very nice. i like this one very much. A good take on a darker version of the "fairy tale damsels"
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wow... there was an extreme darkness to this one.... well written and holding my attention. there is so much more i can say, but i can't find the words right now... excellent write.
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