Ekphrasis I

Thomas Cane

               Standing upright he looks down at those who would dare gaze upon the accomplishments enshrouding his figure.  At his feet there lies the signature supporting column created by the Romans to support their visions developed in bronze or marble.  Small toes become softened ankles leading up his shins the gentle curves from the knees draws attention to the muscularity of his quadriceps.  Behind these emboldened limbs is the sublime buttocks that attracts our attention so readily and supplies such an immense source of rye humor.  Eyes trace his forearms from elbow to fingers moving back to the front of the figure.  In the left hand are the golden apples turned to bronze sitting gently in his plush palm.  Out of the interest for symmetry we look at the right hand and see only the handle of what would have been a club used for slaying great beasts and acquiring the nearly godly status of his deeds.  His chubby face is topped with the signature lion head that spreads down his back and drapes over his right arm.  His eyes are mischievous and slightly gleeful.  Hair sprouts upon an oddly large head with soft cheeks.  Stepping back to take in the statue as a whole there is a greater sense of power and youthful innocence in his figure.  A young would be immortal standing in full nude except a lions skin hood, Baby Hercules stands towering in his pudgy and powerful form.    

(I wrote this Ekphrasis on Baby Hercules)