Photo by Steve MacKay
I am a shard of white-wired lace,
a sun-tipped glimmer
faced with precious stones;
I am a rider of coiled crests,
a rainbow lustre
glints on silken wings;
I am a dragon of callous stealth,
a cunning slayer
of redundant prey;
I am a son of the water world,
a mirror of life
underneath the foam;
I am a stripe of unending light,
a flame vibrating
primeval rhythm.
I am fearless. I am warrior.
I am king of this dominion.
I am Tonbo.
Footnote: Tonbo is the Japanese word for dragonfly. They are symbols of courage, strength, happiness and joyful energy.
This is the third of a series of poems about the life-cycle of the dragonfly: he is now in his prime. I wrote them for the final assignment of my creative writing course. Any and all comments welcome.
Categories: Just Poetry
Just Scribbling 
haha. Love it. It’s got a good sense of humour. The last line “I am Tonbo” works perfectly, Made me laugh.
I just love dragonflies. They are all over my backyard this summer and I’ve been taking photos! This is a wonderful poem, Sally! It really is special. I feel like it would be beautiful printed out and framed. It somehow inspires me! Debra
Thanks so much Debra. Hadn’t really thought about them other than as an assignment!!
Enjoyed this. Somewhere, in a box, in the garage, I have actual photo prints of dragonflies taken years ago. They are beautiful. I like your poems and look foreward to read all that you have and will post. Leo
Thanks so much Leo. Would love to see your photos… I’m addicted to these wonderful insects.