The Lovers' Map of Deryneia

 

The Lovers' Map of Deryneia

Down in the beautiful ravine, where “Ayia Marina” lies,

I would take my love, beneath the tender, azure skies;

for my sweet darling, this dear journey I would make,

two or three times a month, for love and passion's sake.

 

I'd lead her to the shore, the silver-sanded place,

to “Kala” down below, where the tide leaves its white lace;

and when I asked for two sweet kisses, soft and low,

my heart's small wish, my darling never would forgo.

 

A grey, smooth stone from “Therymio” she chanced to find,

for me to carve a promise, a message for her mind;

and if I write those words, "I love you," deep and true,

she vowed she'd press her lips to it, as lovers do.

 

One Sunday to the arches of “Pente Kamares” we went,

a sweet, secluded time, on pure affection spent;

but as I drew her close and held her in my arms,

she started asking favors, adding to her charms.

 

To “Ayios Konstantinos” where the old tunnels meet,

I'd seek a playful woman, with mischievous, dancing feet;

A charming, flirting soul, who knew just how to tease,

and with her playful tricks, she brought me to my knees.

 

At the church of “Ayios Georgios”, the centre of the town,

while the flickering oil lamp gently lowered down;

A tall young woman entered, right through the open door,

and asked for one soft kiss, wanting nothing more.

She said, "Give me a kiss, upon my sweet, soft lips,"

a bold request she made, as my heart quickly flips.

 

Inside the Museum yard, where the double ploughshare lay,

a quiet witness to the plowing of an earlier day;

we would sneak in past the fence, for a stolen, tender kiss,

and held each other close beneath the moon's soft bliss.

 

Inside the peaceful churchyard, here at “Panayia's” feet,

I said, "Give me two kisses," a pleasure pure and sweet;

But with a gentle warning, she softly did reply,

"That gift is surely sinful, beneath God's watchful eye."

 

Up high where stands “Vounos” with its solitary tree,

where the lonely cypress watches the vast, deep sea;

I would embrace my love, and give her all my bliss,

and steal a tender moment, before the sun could kiss.

 

Inside the ravine called “Faranga”, near Deryneia's side,

I saw a cunning maiden where myrtle bushes hide;

I asked if she needed help, for me to come and tend,

and she said, "Draw in closer, my lover and my friend;

“I want to steal a kiss, before this moment is through,”

A sweet invitation, I could not but pursue.

                                                          KVJ