Oracle

"The Snake Charmer," painting by Henri Rousseau

The Pythia has fled her cave at Delphi

overturned the three-legged stool in her haste

to escape the mobs of tourists

and their chattering cameras

She and her snake now wander

the groves the forests the wild places

sometimes in company of her cousin Artemis

more often alone

Pythia still speaks to those who recognize her,

who can decipher her prophecies

but hers is a complicated language

and you can only find her

deep within the woods

or in your dreams

But she will come if you call her

by using your Talent

or speaking for the Earth

for Justice

for Light in the dark time

for Love in the time of hatred

If you call her you will see her

standing there in the shadows

her snake wound ’round her arm

silent

waiting

waiting for your question

© 2001