When visiting the cliffs of Cimbrone, do so very well aware
While beauteous true, with gardens, architecture and views
Humility is best observed, and gravity too - so do take care
And should your insanity's cracks be showing, then perhaps refrain or at least, beware
These garden's brittle chains do naught for safety and easily, your life you'll lose
Humility is best observed, and gravity too - so do take care
High above the ocean's spray, you will feel triggered to lean out over, as on a dare
And slipping in the grittled edge be gone, unless you do refuse
Humility is best observed, and gravity too - so really, do take care
Plant your feet firmly well back from the treacherous rim; enjoy the view from there
No need to see the ocean's swells while you're on high, save it for later; that will do
Humility is best observed, and gravity too - so really, do take good care
Fate it seems, relishes the lives of risk-takers and flicks them gone from almost anywhere
Let not Cimbrone's fates decide when and where to say "arrivederci" to you
When visiting the cliffs of Cimbrone, do so very well aware
Humility is best observed, and gravity too - so really, please do take care.
S.E.Ingraham© (a villanelle) *Cimbrone - pronounced chim brone ee
(photo taken from "The Terrace of Infinity in the Gardens of the Villa Cimbrone")
