Mexican Haiku

by

Inés Hernández-Ávila


written during a trip to Chiapas, Summer 2000

one

Serpent movement hugs
the earth as eagles become
the ancestors' eyes

two

In Chiapas corn
fields climb the mountain searching
the heavens for grace

three

Magueyes burst forth
from stones announcing their place
in the lush cosmos

four

Tzetzal and Tzotzil
spirits survive and reclaim
their ancient presence

five

Bartolomé sighs
ancient ghosts dance with him
echoes come alive

six

Corazonadas
deep memories of the earth
emerge triumphant

seven

Nimipu Yaqui
Pawnee greet Tzetzal Tzotzil
Tojolabal hearts

eight

Marta young Mayan
Draws Pawnee stars in the night
Her smile makes us dance

nine

La Chiapaneca
canta el cielo abre
besa la tierra

ten

Madre Tonantzin
ya eres Zapatista
Venceremos pues


© 2003 Inés Hernández-Ávila

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