My Rusalka

By Vera Sirota

Rusalka is the Ukrainian word for mermaid. This poem is dedicated to one of the special rusalkas in my life.

My rusalka
 
When I attempt to comb your curls
you wail like a whale
weeping
it hurts
please stop
salty anguish washing over your face
 
My heart aches to see how you resent 
your father’s blossoming coils
 
Let me tell you a story, sweet girl
 
You are an Odessan rusalka
you swim where water is welcoming and azure
mermaids require a singing seashell to brush their tendrils
here is yours
 
Your hair is strong–
like your blood
Your hair is like you–
defiant and beautiful

Process

I recently took a writing course entitled “Poetry is Not a Luxury: Writing As Essential Act” through the Poetry Barn. The course was taught by the amazing teaching artist and poet, Kim Noriega. The course used Audre Lorde’s famous essay, “Poetry is Not a Luxury,” as the foundation to “pursue [y]our magic and make it real.” The generative writing prompts got my magic flowing, which led to this personal piece. Thank you for letting me share it with you!

I must point out the beautiful illustration that accompanies the poem, which was designed by an artist and dear friend of mine, Chesleigh Meade. She brings the words to life—especially the rusalka’s hair. A million thanks to Chesleigh for sharing her immense talents for this project.