Merengue

Echoing five-beat rhythmic patterns,
make my hips move, pitter patters.
Festive music, daydreams splatter,
misting my thoughts, with what matters.

Merengue tunes one of a kind,
hypnotic flow, moves up my spine.
African/Spanish dance entwined,
three passing tales seem to align.

One story says it came from slaves,
chained together, cutting sweet cane.
Swaying to the beats, machetes made,
dragging worn feet, to ease their pain.

Leader arrived, limping and hurt,
revolution, leg pain overt.
Villagers prayed, aches would divert,
to ease his shame, their walk swept dirt.

Others have claimed it was a treat,
confection of sugar so sweet,
enchanting dance, always upbeat,
tastebuds enjoy, cravings replete.

New world techniques, old traditions,
form a styles made for musicians.
Fun songs remove inhibitions,
lyrics provide vast compositions.

– Grace Y. Estevez – Reddy

Originally Published on February 15, 2021

42 thoughts on “Merengue

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  1. Oh my goodness, this is so lyrically lovely, and the message and language is divine. What a splendid poem, dear Grace. I love it. ❀️❀️

  2. That is so sad and but has that mind over matter happiness. Taking an ugly situation and turn into something beautiful. Great piece very moving and educational. Loved it

  3. This could be a song…so lyrical with beautiful rythm…your way of rhyming such deep & meaningful lines is divine, Grace ❀️

  4. Very thought provoking and superb imagery, Grace! It ran through so smoothly, great lyrical work! Loved it ❀❀

  5. The historical references and the vibrant imagery sets this poem on another level. Others have mentioned this, but it really does feel like a song. Fascinating stuff, Grace! πŸ™‚

  6. Omg beautiful, dance with me in the moonlight as I serenade you senorita..have a really wonderful 2022..the year of 6 ..unity, harmony, co-operative, blessings πŸŒΉπŸ˜€..GG

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