Almost lovers

On cracked farmlands of ancient olive,
Pink cactus blossoms preen themselves,
Exhibit their soft wares.
Masserias are hot beds —
And we are expected to play.

Drizzled in musical sweat,
We dance, swayed
By la terra magica;  
We’ve tasted wine and cheese,
Tapas like pleasure girls.

We prowl the Mediterranean shore, 
Wild and awake —
Strangers, almost lovers
on neutral ground. 

Lovesick
And never free,
Sometimes
We forget all vows.


Amy Barry writes poems and short stories. She is published globally. Featured in Radio and TV in Ireland, Italy, Canada, Australia and UK. Her poems have been Shortlisted, Longlisted, Highly Commended, won local and international awards. Awarded literature bursaries from The Arts Council Ireland and Words Ireland. Amy has performed her work in Ireland and internationally.