Daphne

by Edna St. Vincent Millay — a poem card from Justes Mots

A playful reimagining of the mythological chase between Apollo and Daphne, told from Daphne's perspective as she teases her pursuer with the threat of transformation into a laurel tree. The poem combines classical allusion with wit and spirited independence, celebrating autonomy and metamorphosis.

Why do you follow me?--
Any moment I can be
Nothing but a laurel-tree.

Any moment of the chase
I can leave you in my place
A pink bough for your embrace.
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Themes: love · new-baby · wedding · friendship