Pannonia Girls

Eyes pools of wonder,

glittering intelligence,

sparkling mischief.

Bodies shaped by pride,

confidence and interest.

Dimples and grins

of gaiety and penny-dropping knowing.

In the wooded space

they have been given leave

to grow, to be wrong,

to be curious.

Castles and kingdoms,

and queendoms,

made in dollhouses.

The lash, the whip and the curse

have not been handed down.

Given no greater privilege,

fortune or indulgence

than love.

Three pennants flying high

above the conifers of Pannonia.

Three daughters leaving Lear

and his wife with no doubts

about loyalty, sovereignty or estate.