LatinosUSA

«The Shameplant’s Confession» by Alexis Araneta

It is time perhaps
To turn my trembling face
To the illumination of the sun

Oh, how long I have waited to declare
Like a sprout emerging from a seed
That you are the sole rose perfuming
The meadows of all my consciousness
Just a smile and my soul is a butterfly
Floating above a lush garden of joy eternal
Devouring the honey of your unique splendour
Until every bit of me is brimming in sweetness

But why in the moment of quiet reaching
Hands bamboo swaying in the cool breeze
Of gentle dew-laden opportunities
Do I fold in on myself little by little
My verdant heart drooping in oblivion

Let courage blossom inside of me
Deftly as a softly whispered yes
Until my world is full of your fragrance
And my imprisoned feelings now run free
Paint my skies a delicate lilac
As expansive as my affection
May it be awash in all your colour
And my dreams yell from the treetops

 I shall await that spring dusk
Where my voice is ready to rise
From the loam, from my nerves

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Author’s Bio

Alexis Araneta is an aspiring short story writer and poet from Tagaytay City. Enchanted by the taste and feel of words since she could speak, she began writing at the age of nine. Her flash fiction has been featured in anthologies such as Tagay by San Anselmo Press and Marbles by Blue Marble Storytellers. Encouraged by a friend to experiment with verse, she has also been exploring the world of poetry.When she’s not crafting advertising copy, tormenting protagonists with unrequited love, or deftly inserting the word “deftly” into every stanza, Alexis enjoys reading classic literature, listening to jazz and soul music, and studying European languages.Follow her (and prepare for a generous dose of selfies) on Instagram and Threads: @cestmoiallie