a dark, mystique forest, deep and wide,
gushing streams gently wend, stories unfold.
dappled sunlight; hissing wind; rustling leaves,
puzzling shadows, entangled secrets,
echoes of existence within nature’s hold.

through the green labyrinth,
a sense of wonder fills,
colorful blooms in hues of red and blue,
violet and purple, fragrance to adore,
alone among the forest’s trees,
each unique, a beauty to soothe.

deeper into the forest,
singing birds and scurrying squirrels set the stage.
graceful deer, soaring eagles pass by,
buzzing bees, hopping rabbits catch the eye,
prowling tigers, majestic lions roam the land,
diverse flora and fauna hand in hand do stand.

as the journey continues, with a determined will,
the alluring fruits’ tantalising aroma,
draws into an enchanting world,
red with thorns, blue with spikes, greens that tease.

amongst the dense forest,
a lone tree stands tall,
branches fresh and green,
a wondrous sprawl,
leaves of emerald, the finest seen,
like a siren’s dream,
nectar sweet, luring insects near,
sparkling drops from its fruit’s core,
a pied piper’s tune, a tempting lure.

each taste, a curse,
in enchantment and woe,
mysteries thrive, and dangers grow.

within, seeds of deceit endure,
sweetness blessed,
yet harbours a poisonous sting,
beneath the surface, chaos reigns,
unleashing havoc, in unseen domains,
a nest of lies woven with care,
a riddle, wrapped in a mystery’s shroud,
cannot resist, despite the risk,
drawn to the forbidden fruit, like a fatal twist.

…

Beena E. S is an Assistant Professor in the Department of English at Nesamony Memorial Christian College, Marthandam. She has published a novel titled “Thorns of Love.” Additionally, her numerous poems have been featured in reputable platforms, including Indian Periodicals, RIC journal, and the Wingword Long List 2023. One of her poems also appeared in the December 2023 issue of Beetle magazine.