The Lost Books of the Odyssey

by Zachary Mason

pg 55, edited lightly:

When I led my men
I wore a dauntless mask
Neither smiling nor frowning
Always taking the next step.

The essence of that mask was pride--
My men love me not for being right
But for my intransigence,
Instant decisions and intolerance of any sleight.

It made me a monster of ego,
Which was wearisome,
But while they were in my charge
I had no choice.

With no uncertain young faces looking to me
I have become contemplative,
Used to thinking things through
In my own good time.