For Mary: The Process of Creation

I draw at night
Using memories of light
In the hope that the sight
Of my work will please.

The things that I draw
Every marvel, or flaw
In my mind's eye I saw
With joyous ease.

You behold, you might, then praise.
I draw more both nights and days...

You share ideas,
And I trap them with lines,
Adding colors and shade
To give them form.

If my work is skilled,
You behold, and are thrilled
And the two of us filled
With thoughts that warm.

What shall I draw here and now?
I imagine... Draw it how?

I sit erect,
Take my tablet in hand
For my visions demand
I trap them now.

I know what I see,
How can I make it be
What I strenuously
Trace with my hand?

All want beauty, no less I...
It's my duty--dream, and try...

Such things I see,
It must not be just me
Before memories flee
To tack them down.

Now it is done
(And the drawing was fun)
Have I lost or won?
Will you smile or frown?

You send thanks, promise a verse...
I, then, could perhaps have done worse...

I draw at night
Using memories of light
In the hope that the sight
Of my work will please...