Iris Agustina Morales, aka IAM Credit: Photo c/o Iris Agustina Morales

Since I was a child I was fascinated by the willow tree. I imagined her leaves enveloping me, cradling me to sleep. Somehow I always felt there was a portal in the thickness of her trunk, where I can find solace, protection and peace.

As I got older I took interest in Celtic Lore and Greek mythology. In my discovery, the Willow tree was popular and important in their traditions which made it all the more special. The Willow tree is known for its medicinal properties and the ability to adapt and withstand extreme climate. No wonder my gravitational pull towards her. She reminded me that I too am strong willed, resourceful, creative, and powerful to face any hurdles ahead.

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Willow
By Iris Agustina Morales (IAM)

I summoned Hecate
goddess of the underworld
moon
and your heart.

You’ve blessed Orpheus
with the gift of music and poetry in Persephone’s
sacred grove.

I, mortal
long for your tendrils
and my heart strings
to Intertwine.

Sprout inspiration,
withstand the chaos of this lifetime.

My friends
asks where I’ve gone
I have no words…
silence is my new song
I seek refuge under your bent spine.

My beloved Willow,
your ability
to adapt
Is the sweetest lullaby.

For National Poetry Month, Creative Loafing Tampa Bay asked Dennis Amadeus, who leads The GrowHouse Collective based in Ybor City, Florida, to help us reach unsung poets. We asked them to write about trees—any trees—and they responded.

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This article appears in Apr 18-24, 2024.