My Reflection

nature, Personal Reflection, Uncategorized 1 Minute 
My reflection is under threat
like a bilby or a platypus.
Sightings are getting rarer.

In photos there’s a me I don’t remember
with long legs and short shorts
and shoes without socks

before the spiders came
and spun blue webs around my calves
in thickly knotted thread

Back then I dyed my hair
(even although it wasn’t greying)
and tried to learn about make-up

Now I have silver wings above my ears
and don't own a stick of lippy
but  I’ve nested a hornet family,

buzzing busy reproduction in my breast,
forming  self important clots.
Extrication will leave a scar

like a tree without its coolamon*
and I will float on now
without that familiar, maternal bark.

And so, the mirror wavers again
and the buzz of hornets grows deafening.
I turn away from my reflection

once more to the people who love me back




*A coolomon (click here to see tree scar and read more) is an anglicised version of the name for the Aboriginal carrying vessel

Written for dVerse – Grace’s prompt – MTB The Body & Poetry

Published by abigfatcanofworms

We all walk in the dark. But if we hold hands, perhaps the dark won't be as scary.

Published

16 thoughts on “My Reflection”

  8. Truly wonderful poem – really beautiful.
    I hope you’re okay and just I’m reading the
    “buzzing busy reproduction in my breast,
    forming self important clots.
    Extrication will leave a scar”
    too literally. *hug* ❤

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

  10. Such an amazing write about our body through the years. There is acceptance and courage. Love the part of: but I’ve nested a hornet family
    and

    like a tree without its coolamon*
    and I will float on now
    without that familiar, maternal bark.

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

  11. Amazing journey on the changes in the body over time. I love that empowering end about turning back towards the people who love you!
    The line about cancer as the hornet family buzzing reproductions is incredible description! But I wish you all the best for health and recovery!!

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

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