Edinburgh

Her dark bitter cold

shining glorious in the gloom.

Sharp heights make her sensuous curves

menacing over you in the most hospitable nature.

She opens her arms to consume you —

come create, come watch, play,

observe and absorb

all of her art and beauty.

Let her bitter chill

warm you to the marrow.

She, and all her children

will ignite you.

She is the old spinster

and the blushing virgin in one.

She will nurture and torture,

wring and strain you.

And in her ways,

extract and extend

withdraw and worship

all your creative talents.