Bleeding Flowers: Part 1

Poem 1:

The faint scent of rain
A quarter past three
Should I wait in vain
Longing for the lost part of me



This poem captures a haunting sense of nostalgia and longing. The "faint scent of rain" evokes a memory, something distant yet lingering, much like a feeling that won't fully fade. The specific time, "a quarter past three," feels deliberate—perhaps symbolizing a moment of realization or a time tied to a memory of loss.

The line "Should I wait in vain" speaks to the uncertainty of hope, the inner conflict of holding on versus letting go. Finally, "Longing for the lost part of me" suggests that what's missing isn't just a person or event but a part of the self tied to that memory or experience. It could symbolize searching for identity, healing from a loss, or yearning for a past version of oneself.

It’s beautifully melancholic, conveying the complex human experience of waiting for something—or someone—that may never return.

Poem 2:

If I love myself
Would they love me?
If I hate myself
They would hate me


This poem delves into the relationship between self-perception and external validation. It explores the notion that how we view ourselves influences how others see us. The first two lines, "If I love myself / Would they love me?" suggest a hope that self-love attracts love from others. It hints at the idea that confidence and self-acceptance can make one more appealing or worthy in the eyes of others.

In contrast, the next two lines, "If I hate myself / They would hate me," reveal a fear that self-loathing projects negativity, leading to rejection or disdain from others. This reflects the belief that self-perception shapes interactions and relationships.

At its core, the poem questions whether external love is a reflection of internal love or if it's independent of how one feels about oneself. It also touches on the vulnerability of seeking validation and the power of self-acceptance.

It’s a thought-provoking reflection on identity and relationships.

Poem 3:

I peer into my eyes
In the mirror to see
What you see in me
But I see nothing but lies


This poem confronts the struggle of self-perception versus external perception. The act of looking into one’s own eyes symbolizes a deep search for truth and identity. The speaker seeks to understand what others see—perhaps admiration, love, or value—but is met with an internal disconnect.

The line "But I see nothing but lies" reveals a harsh self-judgment, suggesting feelings of inadequacy, self-doubt, or even imposter syndrome. It speaks to the pain of not being able to reconcile how others perceive you with how you see yourself.

This disconnect could stem from past experiences, insecurities, or a lingering sense of unworthiness. It raises the question: Are the lies a result of self-deception, or is the speaker afraid to accept their true worth?

It’s a raw and vulnerable glimpse into the complexities of self-identity and perception.


Poem 4:

Is it half full?
Or is it half empty?
My glass is full
Nonetheless, it's always empty


This poem masterfully plays with the well-known metaphor of the glass being half full or half empty, but then transcends it to explore a deeper existential truth. The question, “Is it half full? / Or is it half empty?” introduces the classic dilemma of optimism versus pessimism. Yet, the statement “My glass is full” suggests a sense of abundance or fulfillment, perhaps even resilience or gratitude.

However, the twist comes with “Nonetheless, it's always empty,” revealing an underlying void or longing. This juxtaposition captures the paradox of human existence—having everything yet feeling incomplete, or appearing content while battling internal emptiness. It reflects on how fulfillment and emptiness can coexist, hinting at themes of existentialism, emotional complexity, or even spiritual searching.

This poem beautifully portrays the complexity of the human condition, where satisfaction and longing are not mutually exclusive but are intertwined.

Poetry by Itsuki ---