
A Trusted Tune
Drink from the freshest blossoms
ye ancient warriors returned
to beat rhythmic war drum wings
and hover by youth’s honeyed lips,
whispering arcane wisdom
‘tween tetrachromatic kisses.
Float free of time, talismans
of potent, fertile weaponry.
Trill in fierce competition,
footless, flapping invasion,
tongues, nectar traps blossoming
‘fore the delicate penetration.
Carry our hopes and wishes
skyward with swift heartbeats.
Flap in the higher frequencies
stain glass gems, hovering,
soaked in aurous sunlight,
intimately out of reach.
Savor our most secret thoughts,
in meditative torpors stilled,
nested snug in spiders’ silk,
self-control, but rapid tastes
with erect swords of famed folklore,
fantasy, and prickled fates.
© 2022 | K.Hartless
I wrote this poem a while back for an Ekphrasis Contest involving the artwork of Argentinian Alejandro Pasquale. I find hummingbirds to be astonishing creatures. Many of their most interesting traits and folklore are rolled into this verse, so I hope I’ve captured at least a bit of the awe that I have for the animal and also the artist. If you have suggestions on how to improve the voice or phrasing of this poem, I would be most appreciative of any and all feedback.
Some magical imagery interwoven here, K! Paints such a vivid picture ❤
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Thank you, Tom. 💜 There is something magical about a creature that is so different from all the others.
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As I read this, I imagined seeing into the past when warriors fought with swords and axes in brutal wars. Another time and place. The art is beautiful. ❤️
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Yes, hummingbirds were believed by some ancient cultures to be warriors returned. They sure have the fight in them. Yes, this artist has a lot of great paintings. Thank you, John.💜
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stunning Homeric imagery; I’ll never look at hummingbirds the same way again — and yes, like dragonflies they are wondrous creatures —
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Oh, how wonderful. Dragonflies, now I haven’t explored them as much, but the hummingbird is actually believed to pre-date humans. Their vision is also greater, and I wonder, what do the flowers look like to these special birds?
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The artwork is truly stunning. I love the words and imagery you use here. I too am a big fan of the hummingbird. Beautifully done. 🦋❤️
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Thank you kindly, Joni. 💜😀I learned a lot about hummingbirds crafting this piece. I was most interested in the legends surrounding them. They seem to have a magical appeal.
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Amazing imagery, K. Love it.💕
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Thank you, Grace. 💜
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My pleasure 💕
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Well done, as always! Your words tend to bring me in and tell me so much. Beautifully written 🙏
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Thank you kindly, Simone. This is such an uplifting comment, and I somehow missed it yesterday in my travels. Your words are so encouraging. I’m so appreciative. 💜
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Enjoy and rest up, dear!!
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I think the flow works wonderfully, and also provides the reader with other threaded connections to, for me, anyway, youth hood, vitality, resilience, and that first romantic love. Beautiful, K. 💜
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Oh, Thank you, Jeff. I think you’ve described the journey eloquently. I was drawn to the painting and how it depicts the blind blossoming of youth. Thank you for reading my poem, and I apologize for my delayed response as I was traveling again yesterday. 💜
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You’re most welcome, K. Ah, I’m happy to know my reflection resonated. Much fun. Oh, it’s okay, thank you for letting me know. Continued wishes for fun, relaxation, and creativity in your travels. 💜
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Absolutely lovely these enchanting, beautiful words! ❤
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Thank you, Jaya. I’m glad you enjoyed this tribute. 💜
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I love it, K! As I watch my hummingbirds zooming past my studio window! 😍
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Oh, brilliant. Whenever I spot one of feels magical. Do you have a feeder or do they love your blooms.
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What a great job on your Ekphrasis poem K with incredible imagery with your words conjuring up a complete story. How did you do?
🌞
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Thank you kindly, Cindy. It’s always the legends behind the subject matter that draw me in an I read and contemplate what the subject means today.
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ahhhh yes, great aspirations that inspire. love it! 💖👏
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💜😁
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