Classic Poem

They came from Persia to the Sacred Way
—And rode in Pompey's triumph, side by side
—With odalisques and idols, plumes flung wide.
A flame of gems in the chill Roman day.
They that were brought as captives came to stay,
—To flaunt in beauty, mystery and pride,
—To preen before the emperors deified,
Symbols of their magnificent decay.

Then there was madness and a scourge of swords.
—Imperial purple mouldered into dust.
But the immortal peacocks stung new lords
—To furies of insatiable lust.
Contemptuous, they loitered on parade—
Live opals, rubies, sardonyx and jade.