The Scowl

Marcus Aurelius Antoninus (better known by his nickname Caracalla) Emperor from 198 to 217 AD)

The sculptor bowed before the princeps’ seat,
then noticed that strained visage staring back
with private rage that wouldn’t dare to crack
a smile before or after his defeat
of blotted Geta, brother most condemned
because frivolity is not a trait
for those who’d lead, and cultivated hate
had pursed his scowl while he sat still for him.
He wondered why a change from other busts:
Sour soldier, if you’re proud presenting scowls
to all, why do you hide your pride in cowls,
which neither glorify nor foster trust?
There might’ve been beneath the pose profound
designs and yet what’s heard are blunter sounds.

Christopher Fried

If you have any thoughts about this poem,  Christopher Fried would be pleased to hear them