Ready to Fly

I wrote this in the spring/summer of 2013 when I was living in Virginia and the "Brood II" group of Cicadas were emerging from the ground.

Like a cicada, I am emerging

after years of being hidden and waiting

 

I push forward, up up through the crust of my past

with new strength and resolve

 

I am small and weak but hope pushes me forward, upwards to the surface

knowing what awaits me there - in the light

 

I pierced the ground of years gone by, my face in the sun  
I climb up and shed my skin ready to face the world

 

The cycle is not yet complete, but I am ready

Ready to fly

Author's Note

I wrote this after ending my 25-year marriage to a very controlling man and I was beginning my search for my identity. I had much in common with these mesmerizing insects. Thank you for reading. ~Lola

Reviews

[ANTO]

Never heard of cicadas so had to research them. They are tough wee buggers arent they ;)
I like the whole metaphor - stuck underground no light for years, confined in a way until certain conditions are just right then...freedom.
More power to you and your pen Lola.
I enjoyed this.

[Dr. Wood ?]

ooh yeah.....spread those wings and FLYYYYYY

Space is a BIIIIIG Place

cool poem

[bob, small b. aka invs]

i like the imagery. it's a welcome change from the butterfly metaphor often used, or the phoenix. congratulations on escaping a controlling relationship. i wish more women would follow your example.

[D.T.]

This was very interesting. It was a pleasant read sort of about becoming someone new...not so much someone new actually, more of just changing for the better. Good job!

[Robert Parlange]

Good imagery. I like the metaphor of the cicada as a symbol of change and renewal. You keep it consistent throughout the poem. Excellent.

In the bayou country, the cicadas are described as "lost souls" trying to find their way to heaven. The old-timers were a bit creepy sometimes.