Nude

Ah, liberation-
from the knitted caste system
that has swathed my tan!

Nightingale In The Lobby

Strands of sable veil the face
of a nymph that dwells
within marbled walls.
Freshly picked cherries
kiss her lips;
unsatisfied,
she brushes some gloss.

Her nape, embraced
by the scent of magnolia,
with a hint of citrus
and a touch of vanilla.
With a barette resting
above her ear,
she's the bloom of the evening
the petals? Her skin.

The song is a lullabye
that cools caffeine,
powdering cigars
into ashes, unpuffed.
The smooth transition
from mi to sol:
her voice is a panflute,
the strings, her echo.

Monsoon Humility

Creating mandalas
as they waltz on their toes-
blooming like lotuses
in a stagnant pond;
their cores are pupils
welling with tears:
weeping beneath
the shadows of nimbus.

Rings with no beginning
neither an end;
silent are their echoes
as they flow like silk.
The only audience
aware of the pool-
are soles of filth
awaiting to be cleansed.

From a curtain of raindrops,
on roads they now rest-
searching for the face:
the advent of death.
Anticipating the fact
that heat is preferred,
ripples embrace
as they're consumed
by the earth.

--- --- --- --- --- --- ---

Photo Credits

Raindrops are falling on our drive

by Don Moorcroft

Evening Portraits

The smooth caress
of porcelain…
twenty pearls
inside a shell…
the gaze from marbles
as lightning strikes…
the maiden speaks
without a word.

Flashes of amber
like stars from heaven…
subtle rays
at dusk…
twilight, denied
of darkness…
mirrors guide
the moon.

The breeze,
hums a song…
harmony of light
and a strip of film…
praises given,
yet abrupt…
barely heard,
more often than not.

A different vogue
for every frame…
the smile in lips
has still remained…
though in the eyes,
tears have welled…
and trickle slowly
down each cheek.

Austere Adoration

Arrogance absorbs
an ambition
as asses attack asses:
all are astray,
aghast and alone.

Amidst atrocities
and abhorrence,
an angel aspired amity;
amaranthine ardor: agony, absent...

Arms appeared
and accorded assistance;
all are abetted,
amidst apprehensions.

--- --- --- --- ---

Poetry Soup Comments

Hanami

The voice of autumn
fills the air
with feathers of sakura
and ume blooms;
altogether, petals waltz
with dandelions
in the breeze.
Beneath the showers
of pink and white
skylarks flit
and embrace the wind.
In the heavens,
swallows await
the homecoming
of nightingales.

--- --- --- --- --- --- ---

Photo Credits

Hey Bird.

by Rubens Terayama

Pagtahan

Bumubulong ang ungol
sa tabing ng dilim-
kasabay ng mga sibat
ng kawal ng Bathala;
mayamaya pa't
ang langit ay tumangis:
luha ay dumaloy
sa bawat sulok ng dagat.

Sumasampal sa pampang
ang bawat agos ng alat:
tangan ang lumbay
ng sangkalupaan;
samusamo ang pighati
ng mga ulap at gabok,
sampu ng iba pang
sumusukob sa mundo.

Ang lambak, ngayo'y lunas...
sa dalisdis, may talon;
Sa hagupit ng daluyong:
mga yungib ay sumuko.
Datirati'y uhaw,
lupalop ng silangan,
subali't ngayong umaga,
kapataga'y mga pinak.

Hindi naman naglaon,
galit ay natinag
ng buhawing kumitil
sa libong hininga.
Ang mga ulila't balo,
bumangon sa unos:
kahapon may lunod,
pumipintig ang bukas...
mga sinag ay tumagos
sa kumot ng dagim,
bawat hibla ng bahaghari
sa higanto'y sumilip.

----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----

Photo Credits

"Sun sets in Bora"

by: Peanut dela Cruz

Yuletide Aria

The harp and lute sing in duet:
filling the air with songs of peace.
Audience can't help but to sigh, so deep;
as the voices of heaven
descend the earth.

The flute has whispered
to the autumn breeze-
the carols of winter,
and yuletide greets;
children read the notes of mirth
as they await
the birth of hope.

Indeed, a symphony has now commenced,
among the angels and chapel bells;
and yet the child, in his corner, dreams:
swaddled in humble tattered piece.

----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----

Photo Credits

"Snowy"

by: Etolane

The Four Brothers of Equus

Gallops in the shadows,
feared by mortals:
bearing on their collars
the stewards of blitz.
Like thunder from beneath,
their presence, been sensed:
beware, I daresay
before facing the eve.

The White Brother comes
with the archer, crowned:
the arrows have dogma,
unfortunately, malign.
Claiming the head
although contrived,
this rider leads
by construing minds.

Still fresh, the stains
on the Red One’s skin;
as his rider murders
random martyrs.
A lake of blood
has now consumed-
the soil that's stabbed
by slaughter and war.

The rider with scales
is on the shoulders of Black:
ignoring the famished
and preferring the heeled.
Discarding the purpose
of balance and just,
vultures feast
on empty stomachs.

The last to arrive
is the Sickly Kin:
senile and pallor,
barely could he tread.
His rider: a frame
of calcium, decayed;
they’re followed by the lord
of lightless abyss.

Brothers of Equus:
on their shoulders, rest:
the four beasts revealed
from the final testament.
The prophecy may have failed
to disclose when will be;
we can still, nonetheless,
give light to each morning.

Apocalypse is feared
by those unprepared;
the others however,
anticipate its advent.

The Firedancer

The twilight veils
the summer sky,
as waves begin
terrestial flight.
In crescendo, the conga
chants a march-
luring my feet
to join the dance.

Being blinded by darkness
of almost night;
for a minute, my ears,
have been my guide.
Though, soon enough,
I saw this man;
who is bestowed
with ember palms.

Donning white,
his soles are bare;
while his curls are coiled
in his scalp and nape.
Alas, his face
is quite concealed,
behind the streaks
and trails of light.

He fills the blackness
with neon lines:
swirling them
around my sight.
With this apparition,
I have been enthralled;
allowing myself
to succumb in hypnos.

Gradually, the pace
has began to subside;
The dancer bows
in our applause.
All of a sudden,
his eyes meet mine:
igniting the flame
inside my heart.

--- --- --- --- --- --- ---

Photo Credits

Firedancer
by Wylie Maercklein

In Search for Answers

Weed out the truth
from a puzzle of riddles;
be keen as you do
to discover the answers.
Keep in mind that dosage
is different for each:
do not overwhelm
what’s supposed to be meek.

Bliss is a treasure
that can be felt
but not touched;
the same goes true
with wisdom and love.
Your pockets may be filled
with aurums and mints:
they can never purchase
a gift that’s free.

Prayers are answered,
not all with a “yes”.
Sometimes it ends
with a “no” or “in time”.
All voices are heard
as they whisper, “Amen”;
just be prudent

to wait for your turn.

The Banquet

Plaid of red and white
has been smoothed o’er grass;
feet have been freed
from Mary Jane flats.
Above, the sun, secretly admits
their smiles have triumphed
over the brilliance of his rays.

Wicker baskets home
blueberries and pears,
and camembert resting
in rosemary bread;
sausages from veal, herbed and spiced,
are sweetened with maple:
much to their delight.
Who would forget
that sumptuous dessert-
chocolate tart
with caramel glaze?
Fin’lly, the part
anticipated by all:
strawberry wine
with maraschino swirl.

“Cheers!” they say
as crystals kiss for toast;
“even rain this day,
would merely make us waltz.”

Circumlocution

In a labyrinth fixed
on parchment folio,
Words smother eyes,
midst confounding minds.
Each jargon befogs
what’s ought to be explicit:
deluging audience,
in lieu of comprehension.

Cloudburst

Nimbus’ pets unleashed:
listen as pitter patters
alter purrs and barks.

Cesoir, Avec Toi

Carols sang
by accordions and violas
glaze tete-a-tetes
with saccharine vim.
The winsome diction
in the oui’s and moi’s
makes local tongues
more suave to hear.

Above, the stars
waltz with charm-
luring hearts
to sigh in awe;
from croissant, the moon,
assume a sphere
while fireworks circle
around her brim.

The classic aura
of cobblestone streets
become avant-garde
with stiletto heels;
faded hints
of wine and champagne
perfume the air
and wash the paves.

Ah, the façade of laughter –
sans the tears!
The bonjours, the ça va,
the merci and the kiss…
so much to love,
what is to be loathed
in this very city
where you proposed?

Hydrophilia

Shores caress
through weathered reefs,
as foams embrace
the soles of dwellers;
Rays may pierce, though balanced by breeze;
Now, I know
why souls loathe leaving.

Nothingness seen
through murmurs in the air;
Fowls chant caws
before kissing the waves;
Pick the carapace
that hermits left,
and listen to the carols
of alto waves.

The subtle bite of brine on lips
invites one to perform
a solo French kiss.
The balm of the palms and coconut leaves
enchants beings to succumb
in hypnosis.

As the floor stoops nearer
the heart of the earth,
blue transitions from cerulean to cobalt.
Through gossamer film, a menagerie performs
enthralling victims
to plunge the deep.

Hydrophilia

Shores caress
through weathered reefs,
as foams embrace
the soles of dwellers;
Rays may pierce, though balanced by breeze;
Now, I know
why souls loathe leaving.

Nothingness seen
through murmurs in the air;
Fowls chant caws
before kissing the waves;
Pick the carapace
that hermits left,
and listen to the carols
of alto waves.

The subtle bite of brine on lips
invites one to perform
a solo French kiss.
The balm of the palms and coconut leaves
enchants beings to succumb
in hypnosis.

As the floor stoops nearer
the heart of the earth,
blue transitions from cerulean to cobalt.
Through gossamer film, a menagerie performs
enthralling victims
to plunge the deep.

Isang Sulyap ng Lambingan

Halimuyak ng sampaguita
ang simoy ng hangin,
may pahapyaw ring samyo
ng ilang-ilang.

Sa kawayan bumabaging
ang mga bulaklak:
nagyayapusan ang dilaw,
kahel at luntian.
Ang mga talutot na pumatak,
tinipon ng mga musmos:
binudburan ng bigas
at kaunting alikabok.

Ang karosa sa tapat
datirati’y kay amos
ngayong Sabado’y mapusyaw,
bughaw at may ningning.

Kasabay ng dambana,
kan’lang sinambit:
mga bulong na pangako
na tinuldukan ng halik.
Ito nama’y sinagot
ng mga kantsaw at palakpak;
habang ang mga bata,
sa pintuan, kumaripas.

Tapos na nga ang pag-iisa
simula na ng pista.
Silbato’y naging hudyat
sa pagdagundong ng tambol.
Inilatag ang sapin
sa laylayan ng gulong…
maging ang kabayo,
sa piging, may kugon.

Invisibled

Am I a shadow at night
that is concealed in darkness;
obscured to be seen,
muted from screaming?
In grounds, I lay;
in walls, I lean.
My partner was welcomed,
kissed and embraced;
while I am ignored
at the corner of the room.
Do I have to be at spotlight
just to be noticed?

Am I a ghost unfelt
with voice unheard…
doomed to suffer
eternal damnation?
This earth I may dwell,
but without companion;
in this vast chamber,
I walk alone.
Each face I see,
I beam a smile;
but none has responded,
not even a glance.
I pat on their shoulders,
all they give is a shrug;
after which, they brisk
without looking back.

Country Patio

The serenade
of dancing chimes,
echoes in the breeze
of July.
From a distance,
linger the carols:
of kookaburras
and gentledrones.

In the meadows paved
of callow blossoms,
bunnies canter
like summer snowballs.
Flutterbies woo
each crimson leaf,
sneaking pollens in their pockets
like naughty imps.

“Ah, this is the life.”
I manage to say,
as my lips experience
earl grey.
With that, I perch
on the wicker chair,
and savor the wedding
of cinnamon and pears.

Tears

Sorrows of the heart,
that were concealed for decades,
trickle down her cheeks.

Friggatriskaidekaphobia

Thirteen has landed
on the advent of weekend...
Spare me from the curse!

Je T'Aime

In Paris, we kiss
when the moon is like croissant
and accordions sing.

The Rape of Inamorata

SHE was born with
Curse as HER twin ---
doomed to suffer
and be consumed
by the biased
nature of the
society who
adopted HER.

Half-heartedly,
SHE was embraced
by a kin
who was partial
in accepting
HER past, present
and future.

In the solace
of a dark home
SHE was compelled
to remain, as
SHE awaits for
HER valiant knight.

Ah, SHE, the poor
innocent lass ---
will suffer this fate
until SHE sleeps
in HER grave.

Winter Palette

Being halved in a disc
of ember and snow,
tinges bicker merits on opus.
Exulting own shadows
after breaking from spectrum;
from erstwhile adjacencies,
contrasts commence.

Sable consumes radiance of white
making the latter peep at night.
Grey has veiled beneath its blanket
tangerine's burst of smiles and giggles.
In false humility, azure weeps:
portraying dolor in dark hued navy.
Bold and proud, crimson was;
but is now eclipsed behind jaundice cast.

Oh, in shadows, indeed they dwell
as they aspire for dominant reign.
Monopoly, alas they yearn-
ignoring the threat of audience… bored.

Breakfast

Beside a sluice rests a home:
humbly weaved with strands of memoirs.
Minute signs of yesterday’s flight
submerge beneath cinders of warmth.

Inside is a temple, Genesis’ daughter,
who rears the seeds of tomorrow’s spring.
Withstanding languor: gravid’s twin,
she awaits the sojourn of a milk-washed kin.

Soon enough, she perches on lives-
each, counting chickens inside their minds.
Alas, they fail to know their fate:
not all will leave their carapace.

Lihim ng Mundo

lingid sa kaalaman
ng mas nakararami-
mundong ito'y binubuklod
ng iisang kiliti.

panlasa mo ma'y
kakaiba sa akin at kanya
batid kong may isang bagay
na sa atin ay iisa.

datapwa't sa ngayon
ito ay lihim na nakabaon
darating ang panahon
ito'y mabibigyang tugon.

sa pagsapit ng araw
na yao'y matuklasan
hatid nito'y kaligayahan
sa buong sangkatauhan.

ang lihim ng mundo-
Kanyang handog sa Tao
at itong nakatago
sa ating mga puso.

Mga Sandali Ng Isang Gabi

Sintulad ng kuting
na inilaboy ng ina,
musmos na yagit
sa bangketa namahinga.
Alaala ng mga biyuda
ang nagsilbing papag
sa kanyang pagharok
doon sa Libertad.

Bahagyang naalimpungatan
sa tinikling ni Rizal
nang Gat ay sumilong
sa silindrong kalawang.
Tulad ng dati,
pamasahe'y kapos
upang maitawid
sikmurang hikahos.

Sa bawat sakong
na makalabit,
isang panalangin
ang sinasambit.
Nagparang luwad na
kanyang mga bisig,
subalit sa pag-awit
patuloy ang sigasig.

Sa kanyang pagtikim
ng sariling pawis,
tanging saksi:
mga bangaw at ipis.
Alinsabay sa pagbantas
ng kapirasong ilong,
ginawang panghimagas
daliring malutong.

Matapos ang hapunan,
kanya nang hinigop-
umuusok na sabaw
ng alikabok.
Pisong kinita,
kapalit ay kendi-
ginawang panghiso
sa bulok na ngiti.

Lumipas na nga
ang mga orasyon,
busog na sa alay
ang mga poon.
Subalit, isang paslit,
sadyang kinalimutan...
muling hihimbing
na may kalam ang tiyan.

Downpour

A child has soared the pale blue sky-
to his family, kisses of goodbye.

In the heavens, he then transforms
embracing the promises of fluid mold.

Captivated, the youth forgets
soils that have been his foster parents.

Man assumes a denser phase:
heaviness - has now prevailed.

The sudden shifts of cold and tension
beget him towards state of depression.

Palls of nimbus saturate;
darkness consumes strands of bliss.

Overwhelmed with august ambition,
tears have burst in all direction.

Hence, with this, a realization seen:
down, he plunges the bottomless pit.

The height of climb, the depth of fall-
a fact to be learned by one and all.

Kung Bakit Naging Yagit

Bawa’t luha’y pumatak
sa kanya kanyang titik-
‘di mapigilan, marahil
bugso ng damdamin.

Hindi namalayan
paglipas ng hapon-
gaya ng alala
at nasirang pangako.

Nilisan ang tahanan
nang walang pasubali,
simpleng pamamaalam
‘di man lamang sinambit.

Ang tanging hudyat
na kanyang natanggap:
ay mga pahiwatig,
nakasaad sa isang sulat.

Ngayon, tanging anino
ang kanyang kanlungan,
lawislis ng hangin
ang siyang duduyan.

Tunay na kay saklap
tadhanang nakamit…
hanggang kailan tatangis
ang ulilang paslit?

Self-Inflicted Fancies

Each night of solace,I close my eyes;and imagine that spaceis the man in my mind.Trying to picturethe plot of my dream,I visualize the scenesas I embrace the wind. Pretending that Iam wrapped in his arms,I succumb to the thrillof artificial warmth.For a second, I thoughtthe murmur of the breezeis actually his voicerequesting for a kiss. Sporadic peckshave waltzed their way:goosebumps cuddledmy tender nape.A hint of moisturehas brushed my neckas my bosom revealstears of sweat.My fingers soaredeach curve and cave;a silent moanescapes from my lips. Alas, a thrust from withinhas warped me backin my chamber: alone.Once againloneliness has reigned;his silhouette has vanishedtogether with the wind.

Hiss

Hiss, the sound of slither:
the prey sashayed
to innocence -
a lady was harassed.

Hiss, the sound of slither:
the temptress swayed
the soils of filth,
and lured beings to sin.

Hiss, the sound of slither:
Lucifer’s choice
made man consume
useless awareness.

Hiss, the sound of slither:
with this, the snakes,
like cursed descents
crawled and begged forgiveness.

Minsan, Isang Kuwaresma

Apatnapung araw ba
ang nilaan sa ayuno;
’singtulad ng gunita
ng tagatubos na Kristo?

Mata ba’y mapupuwing
sa kapirasong gabok;
Miyerkules ng pangilin,
bakit pawang nilimot?

Magkano ang kinita
sa bawat palaspas,
upang ipagkait sa dukha
isang takal na bigas?

Sa pag-awit ng Pasyon,
ano ang inatupag?
Sa halip na sa poon,
lumuhod sa dilag.

Noong Biernes nilapa
ulam na mechado:
kalam ba ng sikmura
di kaya ng arroz caldo?

Oo nga't selebrasyon
Pasko ng Pagkabuhay,
Ngunit bakit atensyon:
sa itlog na may kulay?

Minsan, isang kuwaresma
ako ay napaisip:
sa ating paggunita,
Kristiyano ba’y pilit?

Embracing Paranoia

Nascent fears, breeding like rodents,
consumed a mind in beastly fashion;
mellifluous thoughts
extracted sans warning-
paranoia replaced bliss.
Naivete corrupted, sanity drained:
a juvenile heart palpitated.
Tears have glazed eyes of dread;
lips were hushed... silenced...
heavy breathing, trembling lips..
.distant gazes, frozen limbs...
wisdom murdered, laughter robbed-
The body has collapsed:
to failure, it succumbed.

Her Name Is Pizza

Her name is Pizza...
She's like an artist's palette,
donning colors vibrant with character:

warm hues of crimson and amber...
the refreshing touch of greens...
the humble shade of beige and cream...

with her attempt to melt your heart,
she would let mozzarella sizzle on her bed-
making you wish, you could kiss her palate

and just like any other temptress,
she announces her presence
with her irresistable fragrance

and once your lips experience her...
once your teeth penetrates her flesh...
you'll find yourself trapped in addiction.

Indak

Bagama't kay yumi
sa kanyang pagsayaw,
poot na kinikimkim
iyong maaaninaw;
isang binibining
hinubog ng lihim,
isiniwalat ang damdamin
sa bawat arimunding: Subukang pagmasdan kanyang giling at indayog: mga kandirit ay tinuldok sa bumabagang poot. Tingnan kanyang bisig sa bawat kumintang: lagablab ang galit sa kanyang mga hakbang. Sayaw ang dalanginng lakambining mahinhin, sa bukangliwayway maging sa takipsilim; Lihim na bumabalse,kasabay ng hangin, habang kanyang mga luha'y itinago sa dilim.

Forlorn Outbreak

Melancholy has spreadlike invisible virus:depleting hearts…weakening egos...Helpless soulsnow dwell in sorrow:heeding salvationfrom internal abyss.Crawling in darkness,exodus beginsamongst individualsyearning happiness.Like lupine cannibalsdrooling for hope,they secretly cravedtheir brethren’s kudos.Ah, poor beingsin the bosom of dolor!spare yourselves from threatof self-inflicted death.

The Man I Miss

I miss the man
I fell in love with,
whose eyes exudes
melting gazes.
I miss the warmth
of sincere embrace;
the sweetness in the moist
of a passionate kiss.

Sensing distant chill
amidst his presence,
I silently weep
behind the curtain of bliss;
my lips may beam
a hypocrite smile,
but beneath the lids
are lonely eyes.

As I stare at the man
I learned to love,
my heart exhales
a heavy sigh.
Indeed, I may be wrapped
in his sturdy arms,
alas, I cannot feel
the thrill in his heart.

Souls in Twilight Solstice

Trotting the sable pave,
paranoia trapped my id;
embraced in ghostly chill,
each gait was dragged with fear.
At a sudden glimpse I noticed
the other humbled souls:
ennui, pallor and dying,
craving for toxic venom.
Even unfortunate Luna
was not spared from tragic fate:
like a tarnished pearl - discarded,
in solitude, she remained;
likewise heed the plight
of all the weeping stars:
revive their vanished luster,
rescue the evening sprites.
… united with the clamor
of these mourning souls
we traced the road that vows
eternal liberation;
but in desperate search
for lucent signs,
morose tracks still haunted:
brutal cavilers hounded...
eerie creatures crawled
old cobblestone pavements…
With evident inopportune,
sanctuary, we yearned.

The Yellow Canary

Like a sunshine ray,
like animated lemon,
you brighten the day.

The Catalyst

Always remember:
complacency will commence
eternal regrets.

Bird of Paradise

Donning tangerine,
every creature was impressed
with your arabesque

The Humble Bamboo

Amidst the prestige,
for your world renowned stature,
you opted to stoop.

Ooops!

Catalyzing change
in the lives of my brethren,
I forgot myself.

Dolorous Trap

In this conundrum,
I am perpetually trapped:
dolorous, weakened.

Waiting in Silence

Silently waiting
in the solace of my space,
I longed for your kiss.

Sambit ng Puso

Sa bawat pintig
ng pusong nananabik,
ngalan mo’y sambit

Morphed Soul

As the wind hums
a melodic tune,
my spirit waltzes
in the dulcet breeze;
Clueless and naïve
of the echoing voices,
I sway to the rhythm
of moonlight’s grace.
Ah, in solitude,
I find and gain
the parts of me
that I seem to lose,
Except for one, which
my heart longs for:
the missing twin
of my lonely soul.

With this, I left
my comfort zone
and searched for the love
that would make me whole.
Little did I know
that in embracing this stage,
I would start to become anxious
with the solitary phase.
Hence, with this,
I promised myself,
the moment I found
the mate of my soul,
I would do everything
to keep it whole.

The Invisible Battle

Eschewing the threat
of forlorn solitude,
I succumbed
to the proposal
of sly temptation.
Paying no heed
to the apprehensions
of my soul,
I submitted myself
to the lure of deceits.

Hence the beginning
of my distressing plight:
alas, I'm now trapped
in forged chimera.
Like an undead pirate
ravenous for affection,
my sanity's consumed
by my thirst
for acceptance.

Yet, blinded by delusions
I still chose to remain
in this pretentious warp
of terrestial hell.
Ignoring the clamor
of my heart and psyche,
I'm now whole, yet divided
between myself and I.

Shadows of Pretentions

Do you hear the cries
of famished souls:
in desperate search
for their salvation?
Dwelling in anguish
are their grieving hearts:
poignantly screaming
in the chambers of dark.

Like ashen spirits
in a perplexed world,
their lives revolve
in constant morose.
The irony, though,
are their deceiving smiles:
beaming in their lips,
but not in their eyes.

Alas, they're pretentious;
and with this they say,
they're not suffering
from any pain...
but listen closely
as they start to speak:
each voice is dolorous,
amidst the deceits.

Hopefully in time,
they'll be transparent.
May they start to reveal
the emotions they've kept;
cause if they remain
to veil their tears,
they will soon be consumed
by their own sanity.

Grains of Sand

Weathered, eroded...
All these fragile stones and shells
now peacefully rest.

Lady Swan

The fair water nymph
hovers the pristine crystal
with her classic grace

Cherry Blossoms

My pink petalled muse,
kiss my lips and make them blush;
sweeten them with charm

Balut: Eulogy to the Unborn Fetus

Though eager to witness
what tomorrow brings,
you patiently waited
in your fragile space.
Little did you know
that fate can be cruel;
even a mother's kiss
will be robbed from you.
On the advent of your birth
is your tragic death;
in the talons of beasts
your life was put to end.
Murdered by savages
amidst your innocence.
Oh please tell me now,
how can they be so ruthless?

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This poetry is one of the poems published in Makabagong Pluma. Click here to get your own copy.

Kigo Hokku

Spring Flowers

Variant tints of hues
blankets the verdant prairie:
all fragrant and sweet.

Summer Breeze

In scorching chamber
we remain, 'til humid air
blows a flying kiss.

Autumn Leaves

Crisp hues of crimson
dance gracefully with the breeze
then fin'lly, they rest.

Winter Snow
The calming effect
of immaculate colors
warms my frigid heart.

Pandora's Box

Beneath this smile
is a lonelyheart:
left in solitude
and all alone.
As despondent tears
remain unseen,
I ask myself
'til when will I weep?
Questions remain
to be unanswered,
for this world ignores
my existence.
And though my voice
echoes through the walls,
it is still unheard
by preoccupied souls.
And nowI live
in ignominy:
casted out
like an ostracized bitch.
Silently screaming
amidst the dark,
I am trapped inside
Pandora's Box

Delicate Daffodils

This bright summer day,
I impart a humble ode
to the golden bells.

Sea Shore

Forever enthralled,
you have always been in love
with the sky's grandeur.

Hummingbird

Minute yet splendid,
you flutter with elegance:
each move graced with poise

Flaming Passion

Embrace me with warmth
Let the heat rush through our blood
Ignite my cold heart

In Luna's Solace

Burning tears welled my eyes
as my heart wept quietly
within my deep inside.
It seems like forever, that
I've been trapped in this abyss-
clasped by invisible claws...
Oh! When'll I attain my bliss?

Witnessed by the moon
I wailed, I mourned.
Alas no one was aware
of my sorrow and depression.
In solitaire I was left
by the people I cherished.
They ignored my forlorn state-
I emotionally perished.

As I stare at my shaking hands
I study the fate
etched in my palms...
I can't help not to ask:
until when am I supposed
to suffer this doom?
Am I a cursed soul?
Is this earth my tomb?

A Flutterby's Plight

Ordinary amidst
a thousand eggs,
I was a mere nobody.
Plain and common
were all I was --
unnoticeable in
the lush green vast.

Burning with thrill
I crawled into
their circle.
Alas, this world
threw me out
in the cold.

With my fragile heart
crushed and rejected,
I confined myself
in a humble mesh.

In solitude,I remained.
with only darkness
for a friend.
The world went on
with their usuals,
forgetting one
minute individual.

"Your time will come,"
I kept in mind.
"You'll rule the meadows
and soar the sky."

At last,
I felt the wings
warm my spine.
A part of me
was shunned with fear
while the other half
leaped with zeal.

I heard whispers
from afar.
There was a call
within my heart.
"Forget your past,
begin your flight.
Heaven's waiting
to see her child."

With a confident stance
I greeted the world.
"I came back
not to seek revenge,
but to rediscover
my worth."
And as the wind breezed
through my wings,
I redeemed back
my lost esteem.

With empowering hope
burning in my heart...
in my flight, I let
no creature thwart.


This poetry is one of the poems published in Makabagong Pluma. Click here to get your own copy.

HER Plight

Staring at Heaven,
SHE wished for MY presence.
Alas, Sky remained a blank canvass.

Envying Moon, playing with her Stars,
SHE ran faster than Wind’s pace,
ignoring Rain’s piercing claws.

Thunder played her rhythm,
Lightning danced to the beat,
Focused, SHE endured to her feat.

With her rays, Sun beamed a smile.
Still, SHE kept on running… and running… and running…

Suddenly, Rock thwarted HER sprint.
No! IT wasn’t Rock.
IT was moving.

I picked IT up.

With tears rolling down MY cheeks,
I approached HER.
“MOTHER, this is MY CHILD…”

“YOU could have moved this world, yes;
but I just needed to become a mother
to once again be YOUR daughter.”

Hinagpis ni Magdalena

Sa lipunang mapanglait itinuring kang sampid.
Kinutya kang parang putik maging ng mga sagigilid.
Dignidad mo’y nilamatan ng mga dunong na mangmang.
Pangalan mo’y niyurakan ng mga kagalang galang.

Sa sambit ng yong ngalan sila'y dumudura.
Maging pamilya mo’t mga kaibigan pilit kang itinatwa.
Kritisismo’t pangungutya isinampal sa’yong mukha.
O abang Magdalena, ikaw nga ba’y isinumpa?

Ano nga bang kasalanan mo sa lipunang ito;
pawang di nila matanto ikaw rin ay may puso?
Tuluyan na nga bang nagbago ang mundo
at di nila marinig ang ‘yong pagsaklolo.

O abang Magdalena, pilitin mong bumangon.
Di ka pababayaan ng mahabaging Poon.
Di magtatagal, darating din ang panahon…
lahat ng ‘yong dalangin ay mabibigyang tugon.

Remember Love

Remember my child
that love is a gamble
and not a game...
there are risks to be taken
and feelings at stake.

Remember that love
is not a mere word:
it's a verb.
Act what you feel
and do it with zeal.

Remember that in loving
conditions must not be set.
However make sure
that expectations are met.

Remember that to love
does not mean
you'll be loved back,
but don't stop loving
just because of that.

And yes,
remember love
wherever you go-
for without love
you will not be so.

Sisa's Clamor

Her voice unheard
by the children she bore,
she grew more desperate
each passing day.

Like ghosts within,
voices haunted her.
Echoes tormented
her fragile mind.
For weeks, she drowned
in paranoia…
From afar,
she vividly heard
the wails and mourns
of helpless souls.

"Are these voices
of my dear sons?
Oh, heavenly God
I hope not.
Please save my children
from the talons of greed.
In the warm solace
of my humble womb
how I wish they could be –
to spare them from anguish
and grief stricken pain."

Hence, in solitude,
Sisa remained
totally unaware
of what lies ahead.
Though she may have lost
her angst ridden mind,
what still dwelled in her
was a mother’s heart.

The Dance of a Dandelion

A dainty Dandelion Puff
was waltzing with the Wind,
donning white feather headdress
and black suede mary janes.

She graced each twirl with poise,
emoting sweetly to Heaven's voice.

Like a starlight in the morning,
she strucked Daisy with awe;
like a pixie in the meadow
she dropped Butterfly's jaws.

Alas, her dance was thwarted to a halt
by two clasping Hands that hitted her like a jolt.

It was then followed
by a Breath so warm
who whispered,
He just wanted to wish,
He meant no harm.

Seconds after, She was blown in the air,
still a bit dizzy, she danced with flair.
Once again, she danced and waltzed
'til another pair of hands clasps her to a halt.

Poignant Departure

My womb was her home.
The beat of my heart
lulled her to sleep.

With her sudden kicks,
we played short games.
The first time she cried
brought tears to my eyes.

Wasn’t I only happy-
but rather, JOYFUL!
Oh! The bond that we shared:
a memory to cherish!

Alas, I have to leave…
Against my will,
I bid farewell.

Helplessly,
she cried my name.
With a heavy heart,
I closed the door.

I paved the path
with my warm tears.
Dragging my breath,
I sighed on each step.

I left my daughter
against my will…
the mere thought of it
still make me weep.


This poetry is one of the poems published in Makabagong Pluma. Click here to get your own copy.

Pending Vow

I can't help not to cherish
the memories of our past
when every minute there's bliss
and joy in our hearts.

I can't help not to wish
that I can turn back time
on that very moment
when you told me you're mine.

What happened to your promise
that you sealed with a kiss
when you said that you won't leave me
no matter what will be?

I'm all yours, but are you still mine?
Are your promises mere words
or will you fulfill them in time?

And if (oh please, I hope not)
you're not the same man,
please tell my love to come back
so we can go on with our plan.


This poetry is one of the poems published in Makabagong Pluma. Click here to get your own copy.

Hidden Tears

Concealed by raindrops,
lonely tears rolled down my cheeks
when you bade farewell.

Twilight Eyes

Your beautiful eyes
glimmer even at twilight
like stars in the sky

Ac Semper Amabo

Share thy Smile
as sweet as your kiss;
melt my heart
in your warm embrace.

Oh, the bliss
your presence creates,
without an end
I long it to be.

Surpassing doubts
that brood in our hearts,
against all odds
we’ll share this pact.

And so with this,
I promise to you:
from this day on
no longer we’ll be two.

With this, I utter
a Latin verse:
Te Valde Amo
Ac Semper Amabo.

With all my love,
my heart and soul,
I promise to love you
'til so much is forever.

Indeed, I will love you
always and forever:
Te Valde Amo
Ac Semper Amabo

Debeo Damnatio

Commiting a sin,
that was considered grave,
this world has condemed
the poor child
who misbehaved;
they suddenly forgot
that she’s their half.

Condemned in public
like an evil witch,
she was stabbed with glares:
Words were thrown
like ammunition,
But in silence,
She remained.

In perpetuity,
she was exiled…
she was doomed…
The wicked verdict
they have imposed,
Hath shackled her
With disrepute.

As she descended
the dark abyss,
she secretly loathed
the presence of those
who condemned her,
and questioned her worth
in this world.

Casted out
like a useless rubbish,
alas, she may have been;
but rest assured
that time will come,
she will once again
spread her wings.

Impoverished Fate

She drooled overthe soggy fries
discarded inthe foul rust bin.
She feasted withthe famished flie sand cockroaches.
She bathed her throat
with the drink tagged
imitation ---
quenching the thirst
of her dried hoarse
esophagus.

In occasion,
she would look
at the portraits
of the people
inside and wished
for the same fate.

As they leave the frames,
she begged for
old alchemist mints
and cherished them
like fine aurum
that can be pawned
for a treasure
more valuable.

Illuminescence

I summon the light
of the moon and all the stars
to serve as my guide

The Ethereal Journey

Quite uncertain of what awaits me,
I searched for the road that will set me free.
I’m trapped in the fog of my present and past;
oh please release me from this invisible cast.

Helplessly bound in despondent chains,
my tears were veiled by the pouring rain.
In union with solitude, I wept in silence;
as this world ignored my shy existence.

On a dragging pace, I verged upon fate.
Still stunned by fear, I quivered on each gait.
Yet stirred by my grit to escape from this plight,
I opened my eyes in the sable twilight.

Enthused amidst my frailty, I sauntered.
With a fragile hope, this fear, I conquered.
And on the advent of eternal bliss,
I suddenly felt an immaculate kiss.

Embraced by the guidance of the Sacred Son,
I know in time my sorrows will be gone.
And as I surrender my heart and my soul,
in the bosom of His Mother, I will be consoled.

With this, at last, I fin'lly conclude
that I've been saved from the abysmal loot.
And as I drop on my humbled knees,
I'll be clothed in the warmth of the Eminent breeze.

Left Behind

Witnessed by the stars
in the lonely sky,
you touched my lips
with your kiss of goodbye.
Although I portrayed
my stoic self;
drowning in grief,
I secretly wept.

With questions unanswered,
I asked myself:
How could my heart
be taught to forget?
With your smile lingering
inside my mind,
how can I leave
our past behind?

Maybe tomorrow,
you’ll start to move on;
while I nurse the illusion
that you are not gone.
Being comforted
by your abandoned space,
I long to be back
in your sweet embrace.

My Forlorn Confession

From a humble distance,
I longed for your embrace.
Unknown to this world,
in my heart was your face.
I feel myself melting
the moment you smile,
Secretly, I hoped
that you stay for a while.

I reckon the need
of thwarting my feelings.
Given the conditions,
there should be no beginnings.
With the dictates of our norms,
I know it’s surreal.
Alas, it does not change
what I secretly feel.

I know that in time,
you will start to move on,
leaving me alone
in the bosom of dawn.
Completely unaware
of when that will be,
I’ll keep on loving you,
‘til my heart sets me free.

The Paranoid in Katatonia

In poignant solitude, I cried in vain.
Like a delicate being, I screamed in pain.
Helplessly trapped like a dying prey,
I secretly wished you'll save me one day.

Each day has passed like a strike of lightning;
yet no one was aware of my silent weeping.
Amidst their laughter, their songs, and cheers,
I was left all alone, wallowing in tears.

Like an ostracized caste, I was avoided.
With utmost derision, I was rejected.
With the wrath in my heart starting to brood,
I silently cursed like a cryptic shrewd.

Decried like a serpent in hallowed garden;
I was disparaged like a knavish vixen.
Taunted and heckled like a vagabond,
they longed that I, in shame be crowned.

With this, I impart a macabre curse,
fashioned to bane the muse of my remorse.
With the fall of my oppressors, I will rejoice.
I will laugh and cheer... let the world hear my voice.

------------------------------------------------
disclaimer:
author merely did the digital editting. original pictures were taken by Carmen Gonzales

Ode To My Phoenix

For days, for nights
you moaned in pain.
For weeks, for months
you cried in vain.

For days, for nights
you wept in silence.
For weeks, for months
you anguished with prudence.

For days, for nights
I leeched on your strength.
For weeks, for months
I feasted on your health.

For days, for nights
I gripped my claws in your veins.
For weeks, for months
You held on and soon, reigned.

On the night of that day
you screamed.
On the week of that month
I wailed.

At last, it was over.
Finally, Im here on this earth.
You were sober,
But you said, it has all its worth.

Fly, my mother!
Soar high!
Spread your wings!
Enjoy the sky!

Let us share this joy,
this bliss, this mirth!
For my birth
is your rebirth!