Dream of the Magi, 12th-century stone carving by Gislebertus
Dream of the Magi
They might have found sleep easier
In some bed roomier for them
Once gold and frankincense and myrrh
Were duly brought to Bethlehem.
They share a rug-like coverlet,
A bolster of perhaps crochet;
Upon each head a crown is set
In this worn Romanesque display.
An angel gently wakes one man
By touching his extended hand
While pointing out the change of plan
All are supposed to understand.
Above still shines the special star
Which has shown them the way so far.
(Previously published in The French Literary Review, Fall 2021 issue,
this sonnet examines the early-12th-century stone carving by Gislebertus
depicting Matthew 2:12 for the Cathedral of Saint-Lazare in Autun, France.)
"And being warned in a dream not to go back to Herod,
they returned to their own country by another route."
Matthew 2:12
Jane Blanchard lives and writes in Augusta, Georgia. Her latest collection is
Metes and Bounds (Kelsay Books, 2023).
February 2025 issue
This poem visits history and reminds us of God's faithfulness to guide His people. Praise the Lord!