Elusive Ballerina

I find the same seat
Middle, front row
Anxiously awaiting 
The dawn of the show.

A click of her feet
Summons my gaze
Breathless, immobile
Entranced in a haze.

Swaying like algae
She moves to and fro
My essence Imploring
”Dear maiden, let’s go!”

Utter perfection
My darling, Odette
To her I’m abhorrent
Without a fouetté.

Effortless, cruel
Her winsome chassé
“I’m yours” my lips whisper
She keeps me at bay.

Dancers line up
For their synchronous bow
Ladies and gents
In admiration avow. 

The curtain is drawn
Alone I remain
Tomorrow will find me
I hope not in vain.

Photos: Leila Drake Fossek

My husband and I met Leila Drake Fossek years ago when our twins were just babies. Later we learned that she was Santa Barbara’s prima ballerina —or so she was in our eyes. Those who have had the pleasure of interacting with her off stage know that not only is Leila an exquisite dancer, but she is one of the most beautiful, kind souls you will ever meet. Finding inspiration through her inner and outer beauty was as natural as imbibing our Santa Barbara sunsets.

This poem was originally posted on Instagram in November 2020