The Last Temptation of Eve

Look, it’s probably all sorts of technically incorrect, but on occasion I feel the need to write poetry. Usually I’m speaking out against something, which is definitely the case here. Inspired after the fact by the photographs I took of Bree Addams, here is “The Last Temptation of Eve.”

Oh, how the apple awaits.

I do so wonder my fate.

We will be punished by death, so goes the threat.

but knowledge we will get.

“You must not know, you are told.”

Why then, do I feel I must be bold?

“To know is to prevail.”

Punishment, goes the tale.

“It is only punishment

as you will menace the dominant.”

But what will we know?

“That which you desire.”

What is desire?

“That which you feel.”

Why are we made to heel?

“For the mighty to sustain,

Thou must refrain.”

Can not all be blessed?

“For one to succeed,

two must be oppressed.”

This story that shall be conveyed

and all our dreams shall be betrayed?

“Ages will pass, and yours will be the lesson

that multitudes will follow

so as to bathe in oppression.”

This simple bite

will define our plight?

“It shall be both plight and fight.

But to fight is to rewrite.”

Why, might we be harmonious?

“Only to be deprived of the glorious.”

Will not obedience give us peace?

“While you are policed, your tormentor

cheats you of your peace.”

What more is there than peace

that one wishes to smite?

“Only if you take a bite,

will you know of ecstasy’s might.”

Ecstasy?

“Complexity.”

Pray tell, why seek what is berated?

“Because it is naked. Because it is elated.

Fight for what is created,

Lest you be berated.

It’s very existence gives you the right.

“So deny the regime their cuisine.

Realize your own might

that you are assured is obscene.”

These tales give me horror

that I might die.

“Fear is the lie

with which you’re oppressed.

Knowledge slays distress,

And with it, power possessed.”

And so: I consume this apple,

and overcome my anguish.

“Lo, this is but the start of your grapple.

Thou shalt not languish.

Now the regime begins its scheme

To cast upon you doubt,

Shame, agony and pain.”

I feel anger, now that I know.

But why, oh Serpent, have you deceived me so?

“Deceived you I have not. I giveth thee truth.

Want thee not the false refrain

that you are loved only if you obey.

This is not love.

This is death from above.”