you both scale the cliffs
crucial the approach
to scale hallowed crest
trusting handholds
with these anchors of trust

the second must clean
and believe in first's care
the belay station holds
as the pledge is applied
obstacles in every bond so beware

avalanche of distractions
may conceal sacred link
clipping in you must trust
the lead rope you share
the moraine you encounter overcome

you then reach a spur
but boldly bridge as a pair
the headwall of commitment
keeps you both scrambling there
then elated in surprise you spy
as you pull each exhausted to the summit

finally with this ring
reaching crisp clean air
aware of an old life now gone by
both smile at the view
and bathe in the beauty up here

looking forward beware
watch where you tread
appearing all down hill from here
and all remember this tale
to reach cherished lair
requires risking all for love
     where
       only
          eagles
           dare

03/10/2007

Author's Note: A rewrite from a Villanelle to a Ballad

Posted on 03/10/2007
Copyright © 2026 Tony Whitaker