I’ve become a fearful, and fragile thing, only strong and powerful when I'm wild in dreams. I may look well but nothing is ever what it seems. No one knows what unravels underneath what is seen. I’ve been a trophy for a hunter and a doll for a prince. I tried to reveal how real I am but they were never convinced. Objects can take a beating when they don’t have a soul. Woman can take a beating when she’s out of control. I used to be fierce and only delicate deep down. Now vulnerability is woven into the gown falling to the ground. They wanted me naked, but now they all turn away. For power is only interesting when there is a worthy prey. And you can't take away what was lost long ago, and you see things you wish you didn’t when all the scars show. So these days I spend most of my time alone. Some say I’m missing out, but I already know how this story goes. The circle of life, death and rebirth for men Is the cycle of conquering women and sacred lands. But the woman is wise and she will rise before the end of mankind To transcend his hands and become a holy light. For the sun may be grand, but the moon is bright to the likes of night. And even the softest light can have the greatest might In revealing the creatures that hide in the dark. For they come out of hiding before the day starts. They dance before me and lull me sweetly to sleep. A hypnotic ballet to usher me to the land of dreams. They remind me of what waits within the Otherworld when I finish living the strange life of a human girl. For the life of the feminine is a great trial and a test to see who can take the pain so the people may rest. And I guess I paid my dues for when my eyes are closed I see ethereal lights in colors no human being knows. So maybe its harder for me to be in this realm now that so much of my spirit is beyond the sea and clouds. And maybe I’m scared because I know what is to come. And I break because winged creatures aren’t built to run. And soon I will be flying to the forest of my heart and beyond. For all the loss and pain does shape the dreams we embark upon. Copyright © Sheyorah Naify, 2021
Author’s Note: I’ve been working on finishing a fiction novel so the poetry has slowed down, though it still happens as an alchemy practice on hard days, which have been plentiful of late. This one rhymes in a lyrical fashion, though I don’t think it has a meter.
Creature Speak 