PATRON

PATRON (for Calvert Watkins)

Each hero needs a poet’s fame –
Each champion needs a bard –
To sing his deeds – extol his name –
Reciprocal reward.

The bravest shepherd overcomes
The lion and the bear –
Then, as a warrior, he defeats
The dragon of the lair.

His battle valor wins a crown –
Anointed – laureled king –
His righteous rule provides the tale
That gifted harpers sing.

(20 January 2010, Pleasant Grove, Utah)