The Mayan Warrior Princess
The Mayan Warrior Princess
In eerie recurring dreams, like things seen dimly before dawn,
blurred memories of a temple pyramid resurface from an era long gone.
My ancient soul trapped between two different worlds,
one new - the other centuries old,
remind me that I have been here before,
and of that I am absolutely sure.
Familiar faces and scenes from a past life I see,
recollections of Piedras Negras continue to haunt me,
with images of Lady K’abel, Mayan warrior princess, I used to be.
Time’s reluctant prisoner, I sense it will never set me free.
In a foggy haze, like a sleepwalker in sluggish slow motion,
body painted cobalt blue, I am ready for my heavenly mission.
Midnight velvet hair flowing, I lie on a red bloodstained stone altar,
as temple priests prepare me for the sacred sacrificial slaughter.
Piously chanting their practiced prayers in unison,
they adulate the gracious gods for a new divine king’s ascension.
The sharp knife swiftly pierces my sweating, feverish virgin skin,
but reliving this scene, I no longer feel pain or anything.
And as the universe greedily grasps my restless soul, I float into oblivion
knowing the harvest will be renewed and ultimately, I will be reborn.
Note: This poem is dedicated to my maternal great grandmother who was
a Mayan. The Piedras Negras, mentioned above, was a thriving Mayan
city-state in Guatemala, Central America, from about mid-7th century BC
century BC to about 850 AD. While this site is considered remote, during my
childhood, I visited frequently with family who still live in this fascinating region.
When I visit, I am completely at home and the experiences are amazingly
mystical. Piedras Negras means "black stones" in Spanish. The name in the
language of the Classic Maya has been read in Maya inscriptions as Yo'k'ib',
meaning "great gateway" or "entrance."
06-25-2014
Contest: Past Lives
Sponsor: Carolyn Devonshire
Placement: 3rd
Post Comments
Poetrysoup is an environment of encouragement and growth so only provide specific positive comments that indicate what you appreciate about the poem. Negative comments will result your account being banned.
Please
Login
to post a comment
Turn off ads, get more exposure for your poetry, and get more features with a
Premium Membership.
