Villanelle for a Still Born

Ah, baby mine, you were scarce born but still
and taken off in arms that were not mine
and from that day some part of me rests ill.

For you had nestled near my heart until
the fateful day when we had reached our time,
ah, baby mine, you were scarce born but still.

As never did I so desire or will
that those nine months alone should us define
then from that day some part of me rests ill.

I'd gladly give all beauty, gold and skill
and you just one hour in my arms entwine,
ah, baby mine, you were scarce born but still.

Ne'er guessed I how intense my breast would thrill
with mother's love, a yearning near divine,
no, from that day some part of me rests ill.

All you awoke in me one day fulfil,
our bond to memory tender I consign, 
ah, baby mine, you were scarce born but still
and from that day some part of me rests ill.

©Janet Henderson 12th June 2017