have you heard her speak
her voice as deeply defined
as a slender Celtic torque
about my bowed neck,
yet flowing and hopeful
as the touch of a child
no mere pearls of grace
from her moistened lips fall
yet the roughest stones
of truth lie firmly buried
beneath the hardened soles
of her once wandering feet
no shining baubles adorn
her words wisely entwined
woven with truthful care—
O Aphrodite be damned!
and her allure, for it is Athena
to whom I pledge my heart
George Ellington 
I like this a lot… for me Athena was always a favourite goddess too, so I can relate. Beautiful imagery, and description of a voice… I had to look up Celtic torque, that was also interesting (and led to Wiki sublink to the Celtic god Cernnunos, once I don’t think I’d heard of before). I always enjoy reading your poetry! It’s classical but sensual and flowy.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thank you so much, Lia. I am so happy you enjoy it.
LikeLiked by 1 person
i’m digging this one George! the opening stanza is great.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks, Jay. Glad you liked it.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Athena is esteemed by the wise. Hence the attachment of Odysseus, wisest of the Greeks.
LikeLike