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Manila

Missing image

 

 

Thick humidity, air as hot as

a lover’s breath

 

clothes coax sweat from your body

as tropical breezes few and far between

mingle with

 

Gardenia, Damascus rose

and Jasmine.

 

The romance of unknown spices

and Spanish conquistadors, brought by

ocean zephyrs, fill the mind

leaving senses reeling.

  

‘Intramuros’ stands like a

grayed patriarch watching over

a bustling family

with stoic demeanor  

 

and the women, exotic

moving like

gentle rain through the hills

 

with inviting eyes

like jade pools, to refresh the soul.

 

 

 

 

Author notes

Picture prompt

Photo credit goes to: Wawi Navarroza.


Intramuros is an ancient Spanish fort located along the southern bank of the Pasig River, it was built in the 16th century and is the oldest district of the city of Manila, the capital of the Philippines. Its name, in Spanish, Intramuros, literally means "within the walls", meaning within the wall enclosure of the city/fortress, also describes its structure as it is surrounded by thick, high walls and moats. During the Spanish colonial period, Intramuros was considered Manila itself.

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Comments

1 - 26 of 26

  • Ken-Maverick
    November 21, 2008

    Edit | Reply

    JUDGED!!

    Excellent write dude,
    much enjoyed the read

    All the best to you in the contest

    Ken

    P.s I like this one aswell Anna
    Like you said, for someone who hasnt been to the philippines this writer captured its essence well,
    I see now why you asked me to help choose the winners, coz the writes i've read so far are amazing


  • ariazephyrzoe gold member
    November 19, 2008

    Edit | Reply
    Hi Sir MJ

    Thick humidity, air as hot as a lover’s breath

    For someone who haven't been here in the Philippines before...you sure did capture how significant the place...Intramuros is and the emotions that come along with it especially it made mention the women from here with inviting eyes like jade pool, that refresh the soul.

    The first time, I read it. I instantly love it!


    Anna Lee


  • Purush
    November 16, 2008

    Edit | Reply

    all the best

    spices
    or species. pl check once
    good poem with scholarly weave flashing in
    'and the women, exotic

    moving like
    gentle rain through the hills
    with inviting eyes
    like jade pools, to refresh the soul.'

    gentle words slopping out from your heart

    all the best


  • Mozaic
    November 15, 2008

    Edit | Reply

    Captivating...

    ...from the start...you have finely woven intricate pieces of a world unknown to most, yet spun a tale that would mesmerize all!


  • Gulfbreeze
    November 15, 2008

    Edit | Reply
    You write with an intellect that few of us reach, whether it is about love, or nature, or a place, your words bring so much beautiful emotion to the page. This piece is of no exception. Intimate, serene, and magical, it is always a pleasure to read from you. Thank you.
    “clothes coax sweat from your body
    as tropical breezes few and far between
    mingle with
    Gardenia, Damascus rose
    and Jasmine.”


  • adsaige
    November 12, 2008

    Edit | Reply
    As usual, your writing is gorgeous. I have nothing important to say, but I can tell you that the imagery is a breath of warmth over skin.


  • bigperm
    November 6, 2008
    Edit | Reply

    Very solid piece.

    Great rhythm. I am especially taken with the sixth stanza. Best of luck in the contest.


  • second-born
    November 5, 2008

    Edit | Reply
    wow...this is such a very beautiful and serene poem about a place and the ladies in my country...every word evokes sincerity and reality that I couldn't help but to feel melancholic now...anyways this is a fantastic poem!!!


  • kiwigirljacks gold member
    November 5, 2008

    Edit | Reply
    Wow... *sigh* ... what an amazing write! You've done your homework.. and you brought this picture to life!

    Have I told you lately I adore your poetry?


  • fortyninereasons gold member
    November 4, 2008

    Edit | Reply
    a most enjoyable read, the imagery danced around like a waltz.
    Juls


  • Cannonsfire
    November 4, 2008
    Edit | Reply
    A beautiful image is portrayed in this poet, a lovely and delicate piece Love, C


  • Margaret Denham gold member
    November 4, 2008

    Edit | Reply
    Your words brought the most amazing and beautiful images to mind and teased my senses with a simple yet intricate delicacy that you always seem to be able to achieve.

    I like it!

    Love Margaret


  • charcoal
    November 4, 2008

    Edit | Reply
    this is so good (: I once lived in Manila for four years and can so relate.
    after every line i was saying, yes that's how it is.

    brilliant!

    • charcoal
      November 4, 2008
      Edit | Reply
      in that case, hats off maestro (:


      • MJ Donnelly gold member
        November 4, 2008
        Edit | Reply
        Thanks, I just did a Wikipedia search, gathered the information I thought I needed and voila!

        • charcoal
          November 4, 2008
          Edit | Reply
          once again hats off (: this time to internet lol


    • MJ Donnelly gold member
      November 4, 2008
      Edit | Reply
      Thank you so much for reading, and you know the funny thing is, I've never been there.


  • Reptile Lady gold member
    November 4, 2008

    Edit | Reply
    Your words held me breathless
    Flowing in imagery, the scents filled my mind, softly swirling.
    Wish you the very best with this beautiful poem
    Julie


  • Angelflower
    November 4, 2008

    Edit | Reply
    Dad, I don't think there is an end to your talent. It always amazes me! I really loved this! and anything Spanish?! of course I'll love! lol. bravo daddo. best of luck in the contest!!


    Angel


  • moon2u
    November 4, 2008

    Edit | Reply
    bewitching
    I almost feel as if this thick fragrant cloud
    enveloped me.
    another world
    another time...

1 - 26 of 26