“The Child of Shalott” by Katie Scibelli (2009)

This carnival rests in a field of flowers.

Hear the innocent laughter
Her song echoes through you.

She waves her hand,
Palms dive in and out of air currents.
She is a fairy granting wishes.

Her crimson hair falls on young shoulders
Unkempt after a day of enjoyment.

Slow horses painted with gay colours
Dance circles around spectators
Captives forever in a carousel.

Even as a low sky taunts her with rain
And a moon overhead casts shadows
She is fearless.

God in his mercy, lends her grace
And allows moment to never end.