More than Tita’s keys
and the Ferris wheel birthmark
below my Havana Gold knee.
More than secrecy,
smoky Cohiba eyes,
more than these.
More than my country and
the pale-necked galliwasp
in my chest that is striking as
hummingbird hues of dawn
streak colors like lightning.
Ay, more than right or wrong.
More than the striped tiger
decapitated in its youth.
The subway of my future commute.
My mariposa orchid blooms.
More than light,
and more than truth.
A candela burning, but
I no longer mourn.
La Milagrosa no more.
Blind, but now I see.
My uterus, my prized possession.
My most sacred part,
no more concessions.
© 2022 | K.Hartless
This poem features the rich artwork of Danelle Rivas. Be sure to view her entire gallery for further inspiration. “El Camino de Esmeralda” is shared here with the author’s permission.





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