This Tuesday’s Petite Pen took first prize in an AllPoetry brevity contest, so I thought I’d re-share it today. The piece takes a close look at a the yin and yang of parenthood. If you feel inspired by the image join me in penning 30 words or less to the painting.

Happy Tuesday!

Night Guest by Massimiliano Ligabue

My Janus Heart

She shadows me.
A forest reflection
birthed in natural light.
She is disbelief.
Fake shrubs,
fading greenery
in the waxy twilight.
Cushions apart:
My mirror
My daughter
My Janus heart

© 2022 | K.Hartless

13 responses to “My Janus Heart”

  1. It’s the constant emotional battle with parenting…

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Indeed. If I could only help her avoid my mistakes, but she heads that direction every time. It must be genetic. 🤣

      Like

  2. Love this gorgeous, crisp write!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Thank you, Jaya. 😁

      Liked by 1 person

  3. Tom Avatar

    Some great vivid contrasts here 🙂

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Thanks, Tom. It’s amazing to think of the shadow a person casts in their lifetime.

      Liked by 1 person

  4. Brevity at its finest. Well done, K.!

    Liked by 2 people

    1. Many thanks, Michelle 😁. A small bite of this topic is all I can stomach usually.

      Liked by 1 person

  5. An amazing write, K. I love that piece.

    Two, one
    becoming known
    into the abyss
    a flock of seagulls, flown
    down
    tepid smiles drown
    in place of a heart of tin, and gold
    found

    My weekly contribution. So much fun. 💜

    Liked by 1 person

    1. I can picture this gorge right there on the couch but also in the hearts of these two separate beings. Your petite pens speak volumes. I’m so lucky to have you writing with me every Tuesday. 💜

      Liked by 1 person

      1. A perfect reflection. I do think these chasms can be profound, especially when they go unacknowledged. Thank you, K, writing with you is always one of my fav writing activities. 💜

        Liked by 1 person

      2. That’s so kind. Mine too. 😁

        Like

  6. This is just so provocative, I also get it. Beautifully worded, Joni

    Like

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