It’s Permanence That Petrifies Her

This Tuesday’s Petite Pen asks that you draw inspiration from the layered artwork of Suzanne Van Bebber. If her stony countenance inspires you, I’d love for you to join me in penning 50 words or less to her facade.

Happy Tuesday!

Horse-drawn carriage,
readied whip,
through the garden
swish of petticoat,
a high neckline among the hedges,
embroidered slippers on coarse pebbles
a corset flits by a fountain,
quiet colors.
Another female form disfigured by dust,
cracks that don’t crumble,
wiry frame immortalized in concrete
but it’s permanence that
petrifies her.

Artwork: Suzanne VanBebber

10 responses to “It’s Permanence That Petrifies Her”

Tom

Really vivid lines that paint such a compelling picture, K – got plenty of old period drama vibes from this! 🙂

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1. K.Hartless
  
  Thank you kindly, Tom. I’m so appreciative of your feedback. It’s the statues (likely nude) in contrast with the women covered head to toe that took me in, as I contemplated this all in the garden.
  
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EclecticMusicLover

Compelling words, and a lovely song to go with it.

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1. K.Hartless
  
  Thank you. This was a fun one. It’s amazing how idolized and overlooked the female can be.
  
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johnlmalone

vivid, kinetic imagery; the last line is transfiguring and relatable; we lust after it but fear it: shades of Dorian Gray here —

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1. K.Hartless
  
  Sorry, John. I missed this beautiful comment. I love that comparison. Something about what is supposed to be the immortal beauty of a woman.
  
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Jeff Flesch

I see two of me
a mirror, and a step in between
what once was, and yet again may be
to feel more, think less
and resist
the underlying knowledge filling my head, instead
I
in your love rest

Your poem is awesome, as was this challenge. It’s been a while, and I always enjoy it much. Thank you for always creating this space, K. 💜

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1. K.Hartless
  
  The pauses in your poetry are breathtaking. This one is no exception. Thank you for writing with me. I know I don’t score high marks in consistency but I’m so grateful to you for writing alongside me. A perfect ending to my day. 💜
  
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  1. Jeff Flesch
    
    Writing with you is always a joy. I would like to do more if it when there is more time. Thank you for the lovely compliment, it means much to me. 💜
    
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writingwhatnots

Hi K, love this image and where your imagination took you. The conflict between art and reality! I have penned a petite in response: https://writingwhatnotsblog.wordpress.com/2022/09/22/and-zeus-quakes/

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