Dragonfly by Ginny Brannan

I would like to believe that my “spirit” animal is a dragonfly...

I am definitely drawn to these creatures. The dragonfly, with protruding eyes and exoskeleton, is not nearly as pretty as his butterfly cousin, though in their lifetime both metamorphose, adapting, becoming something else.  I’ve learned that even youth, the dragonfly nymph faces adversity, and must learn to swim the currents to survive. Their delicate, translucent wings disguise their real strength. In this stage of my life, more autumn than summer, I too have changed— writing poetry, finding my voice. And in the past year have discovered a courage and inner-strength strength I did not know I possessed…yes, I am drawn to dragonflies…

Dragonfly

by Ginny Brannan

Ever transforming

stronger than you first perceive

I am ‘dragonfly’

* * * *

What is it about the dragonfly

that attracts me…

As a children we were told

they were “darning needles”

would “sew your mouth shut”

…we ran in fear of them.

Yet over time I have come to appreciate

how they morph to “become”

what they are meant to be—

Throughout my life

I have adapted and transformed:

transparent, translucent

I wear my heart on the outside.

I may appear stationary,

but am always moving,

discovering, growing;

like the dragonfly,

becoming who

I am meant

to be.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * 

"As a seasonal symbol in Japan, the dragonfly is associated with autumn. More generally, dragonflies are symbols of courage, strength, and happiness, and they often appear in art and literature, especially Haiku." (Wikipedia, the Free Encyclopedia)

(Find more of Ginny's poetry in our new book! Just click here) 

Ginny Brannan: Residing in New England with husband of nearly 34 years, son and two cats, Ginny Brannan took poetry and creative writing courses in both high school and college. Foregoing degree, she headed directly into the workforce. In 2009, Ginny found herself out of work and facing the ominous task of finding employment in a cyber world and declining job market. Struggling to keep afloat, a long-time friend suggested she tap back into her creative side and pick up a pen and write (or Macbook and type as case may be). She credits the therapeutic effects of writing to getting her through this stressful time. Ginny writes both traditional poetry and free verse. She has been published in The River Muse, an on-line Art & Literary Journal. You may read more of her poetry on her website here, listen to her recite her poems here or connect with her Ginny on twitter.  

~If you are interested in seeing your poetry appear in this blog, or submitting a poem by a woman that has inspired you, please click here for submission guidelines. I greatly look forward to hearing from you!~