Image Source: BBC
Nefertari, an Egyptian queen and the first of the Great Royal Wives of Ramesses the Great was also known as Nefertari Meritmut.
Ode to Queen Nefertari
Nefertari, you are herald as the Nubian queen
who married King Rameses II of Egypt for peace
a union that brought fighting
between Nubia and Egypt to an end
a truce lasting well over a hundred years.
Initially a savvy political move
a gamble you were willing to take
you didn’t fear for your life
when King Rameses asked you to be his wife
as this forbidden union
became one of the greatest love affairs in history.
It took a great deal of courage
such an incredible sacrifice you made
inhabiting a land
that was hostile to your people
for peace, was a brave path you paved.
And so, in the Valley of the Queens
as the Great Royal Wife you are laid to rest
above all others in his harem, beautiful companion
it is obvious King Rameses loved you the best.
© 2013 Wings of the Wind: A Cornucopia of Poetry
From Behind the Pen 