Filipino
by Eileen R. Tabios

 

 

Because someone invaded
then stayed.                       Because

someone inhaled                the penetration
behind windows glowing from shells hollowed

by sea, salt and tropical light.                Because
all moons pale as they shed virginity to rise

the better to navigate layers between dark leaves.
Because white caesuras make poems

possible to read.                                              Because
I am authentic Filipino (even “Tsinoy”) behind sapphire eyes.

 

© Eileen R. Tabios

Written after a husband somewhere got a massage from a blonde, blue-eyed lady who apparently is one-sixth Pinay … and loves adobo.