Astute Artist
She knew her charm, she could entice within moments, she had slayed many with her looks yet this artist chose to paint the Lady of Conceited Charisma. Confident of softening her expressions, he devoted one hour everyday to sketch her portrait and left in a hurry, pretending loss of inspiration. The chagrin of the lady mounted with each passing day but the humility with which he bowed his head and promised to complete the commissioned work within a month touched her heart.
He chose lavender
that could soften the semblance
she liked fiery red
he painted calm nuances
she yearned for a love embrace.
© Balroop Singh
Thanks to Colleen for the inspiration.
This week’s challenge is Ekphrastic poetry, inspired by a work of art. I chose tanka prose. There are two basic forms in classic tanka prose: Preface (explanation) and the Poem Tale (episodic narration.)
Thank you.
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Clever!
Thank you Annette.
Oooh. I love this, Balroop. I love the contrast in “he chose lavender” and “she liked fiery red.” What a great interpretation!
I found that in her expression. I felt she would take pride in commanding, would never agree with others but she seems to hide that emotion. Thanks for your lovely thoughts Diana.
Most excellent writing, Balroop. You took me there. I can almost see the artist standing before her.
I am glad this resonated with you Lisa. Thank you for your encouragement.
You are very welcome, my pleasure!
Interesting and charming, Balroop. 👏
Thank you!
Vivid and flowing. Love this, Balroop 💕🙂
Thanks Harmony, I am delighted to hear that it flows well. 🥰
I always love this form when it’s used, and you did it to perfection Balroop. This is superb!
Thanks Mae, I too love this form, as it gives freedom along with syllabic beauty. 😀
Well done, Balroop! I love the prose and poem, along with the contrast of lavender and fiery red. Beautiful!
Thank you Lauren.
I love the opposites in this poem, Balroop. Bravo!
Thanks Jacqui 😊
Loved this, Balroop. Fit her perfectly.
Thank you Denise.
And isn’t that the way! How we feel in our own skin vs an outsider trying to fit us to some ideal they have which means nothing to us! Well done, Balroop. Even if you disagree with my interpretation! 😘
Lovely, Balroop! There certainly is a look of “Conceited Charisma” in her eyes.
Thanks Lisa. Have a wonderful day.
I love that she wanted control, but he held the cards (or paint brushes, in this instance). Great poem, Balroop!
Yvette M Calleiro 🙂
http://yvettemcalleiro.blogspot.com
Yes! Nobody can surpass an artist. Thank you Yvette for coming over to read and share your thoughts.
Balroop, my jaw literally dropped when I read this tanka prose. It is stunning!! I think you captured something in her face; I didn’t see until now. She clearly wants to be in control, but he has other ideas. This is excellent and most powerful!! 💛 👏🏻
Thank you so much Colleen, I am delighted to hear that you like this tanka. This artist’s unique talent shows in the face he has painted – an elegant yet arrogant look that could devour a young heart. The flowers on the chair enhance her look. I think it’s a masterpiece!
Your tanka prose is one of the best I’ve read in a long time. Your tanka and the prose portion really drew me into your thoughts. I loved it.
Thank you Colleen. You made my day! 🥰
You’re most welcome.
He definitely caught the sensuality in her eyes. Wonderful painting and prose, Balroop.
Yes, this is a fabulous painting Jacquie, there are many nuances to this face.
Hi Balroop, this is a great poem. It suits the visual very well.
Thank you Robbie, so good to hear that.
Balroop, a passionate lady who is being made to be more demure than she feels inside! Love it!
Thank you
Very lovely Balroop. 😍
Thank you Marje
Absolutely spot on 💜💜
I love how you chose to write this poem from her perspective and that of the painter, Balroop. Well done!
Thank you for sharing your thoughts Mark. Isn’t that a wonderful painting? the artist must be proud of his work.
Lovely!
Thanks arv.