Colleen at Wordcraft poetry suggested writing a syllabic poem about a color using a word from a color chart she provided. I chose orange because it is close to my favorite color which is coral. For a word I chose joy.
Last year I posted a photo I took of one of our gorgeous Arizona Flame Skimmers, or orange dragonflies. This beauty is my inspiration.
Here is my tanka:
On a day of cares,
when the water heater leaks
and I am in pain,
I step outside and notice
with joy orange fairy wings.
###
The following photo is a closeup from the free photo library.
The journal The Ekphrastic Review hosts an Ekphrastic (writing inspired by a work of art) Challenge every two weeks. Here is a poem I wrote to one awhile back. The link will take you to a sample of the art by Manuel Espinoza, though not the actual piece I used. https://www.ekphrastic.net/the-ekphrastic-challenges/manuel-Espinosa-ekphrastic-writing-responses
So from joy to violence. But luckily joy is right outside my door because the Arizona air practically vibrates with dragonflies and hummingbirds.
Both very good – what a contrast
Thank you, Derrick. I know. I was sort of startled haha.
I love your tanka of solace and hope through nature. “The Defense” is a very powerful depiction of domestic violence. It deserves a wide audience.
Thank you, Liz. I am thinking it does represent the child’s powerlessness which I have not seen often in a poem. The most well known poems by Roethke and Hayden are about the child abuse, not the worry over the mother.
You’re welcome, Luanne. Children in that situation do need a voice.
They sure do. And the responsibility to feel as if they should protect the mother . . . .
That sense of responsibility leaves scars on a child.
Exactly.
Your words sizzle my soul. Stunning!
I’m waking up to strong stuff in your two poems. Good morning!
Thanks, WJ! That will wake you up haha.
Thank you, Amie! I love your enthusiasm!
Beautiful joy and tragic violence.
That orange dragonfly is stunning!
Beautiful pics and poem. It’s late down under…I wont sleep if I read the other one….will save it for tomorrow.
Thank you, Rall! Yes, I understand! Sweet dreams.
Both are lovely, Luanne
John, thank you!!!!
😊
This is beautiful Luanne it really speaks of feelings and colours 💜
Thank you so much!
A pleasure 💜
I love dragonflies! Great poem, Luanne! And your Defense poem was heartbreaking. Well done on both!
Yvette M Calleiro 🙂
http://yvettemcalleiro.blogspot.com
Thank you, Yvette. I’m so thrilled you like them both!
Delightful!
Thank you, Susan!
🤗❤
Wow … indeed, what a contrast! Both poems capture my heart 🙂 I’d love to see an orange dragonfly. I see quite a few when we go to a wildlife refuge near us, but none of them are orange. Still, I love watching them.
Yes, all dragonflies are beautiful, especially when they are whirring around. But these orange are just breathtaking. Even prettier than orange popsicles ;)! And thank you re the poems, Marie.
Loved both of these, Luanne – they are insightful reflections of real life. Thank you.
Sheila, thank you! I’m so glad you liked them. Yes, the tanka is really for everyone, and the other is from the dark underside of our lives.
I’ve never seen an orange dragonfly. They seem as lovely as your poem. ‘Defense’ is brilliant and powerful! Thanks for sharing.
Balroop, thank you so much. These dragonflies are really so gorgeous. Like flitting flowers!
Love both Luanne 💕
Thank you so much!
I don’t know how, but I knew you would choose orange and joy! What a delightful tanka! I’ve never seen an orange dragonfly! Your poem gave me a huge smile. I hope you feel better. 🧡 (We lived in Prescott Valley for a couple of years and also in Northern Surprise, the far western edge of Phoenix. TOO HOT is all I have to say. LOL! That’s why we’re in Michigan).
That is so funny that you knew! These dragonflies are just stunning. I always loved the blue ones in Michigan but these are so vivid. It’s going to really heat up soon. Ick.
I know, that heat was the absolute worst. Be safe and lets hope the summer goes quickly for you, Luanne.
Thank you!
Aw, I love that! Orange Fairy Wings!
Thank you. They are such little fairies!
They always lift the spirit! (K)
Oh they do!
Beautiful.🧡
Thank you!!!
Hi Luanne, your poem for Colleen’s challenge is very restful. Quite the opposite from the other poem which is a real gut puncher.
Thank you, Robbie. I agree that they are very different!!!
I loved both both poems. You have an amazing way with words.
Brenda, thank you so much!
Both spectacular pieces
Ah, thank you. Much appreciated.
Luanne ~ this is lovely, but why are you in pain? I hope it’s something that has passed…
Much love,
David
Thank you, David. Oh, I’ve had a painful leg for a variety of reasons sinceJanuary. I am working on it though! Going to physical therapy, etc. Thank you for asking!
🤗