Jack's House
"there's no glow in my eyes, no curve in my lips, no voice of echoes, no nose to sniff, but I can feel the roses in my sacredness, as I imagine the deep red soft petals the thick green stem wth thorns as a reminder of the house that Jack built--I'm safe now"
~Queen Anyah Divine
Reading "Jack's House" truly evokes a powerful journey into the emotions tied to safety and inner peace. The metaphor of roses—deep red petals with a thick green stem and protective thorns—beautifully symbolizes how beauty and protection coexist, much like our own experiences in places we feel safe. In my own life, I have found that a 'house' is more than a physical space; it represents a sanctuary for the soul, a foundation where vulnerability meets strength. The absence of traditional sensory experiences like sight, voice, and smell in the poem suggests a transcendent connection to feelings rather than the physical world. This resonates with times when emotions become the only anchor we have in moments of solitude or change. Imagining the 'house that Jack built' invites reflection on the foundations we build in our lives—be they relationships, beliefs, or inner resilience. Furthermore, the delicate yet thorny rose serves as a reminder that growth and protection often require balance. Just as thorns defend the rose, our boundaries help preserve our sacred spaces. Engaging with such poetic imagery encourages readers to embrace both vulnerability and strength in their personal sanctuaries. Ultimately, this piece is a gentle yet profound reminder to value our sacred places and feelings of safety, even when external senses or voices fade into silence. It is a beautiful invitation to connect deeply with the essence of being safe and whole within ourselves.