"A Canopy of Raindrops" by Sierra Duffey

Under a canopy of raindrops

a sleepless city shedding layers

a deep complexity

beneath vibrant symphony.

La Ville was never a getaway

only a place to lose control

a place of passion and tenacity

a world all alone.

Still a discovery

of hidden alleyways

neon lights

and artisan champagne.

A gritty nightlife

full of sassy bourgeoisie

I hope this spirit never leaves

the revolution,

a distinctive voice

that transforms messiness into meaning

providing a definition

to a life beyond conformity

The spirit that thrives in rest and play.

Youthful soul expanding

finding full potential

after waiting soporific years.

Patience was my greatest gift

faith that clarity comes at the right time

the waiting having unmatched reason.

I would have lost Montreal back then

being so young, so unarranged

I would have sprinted,

crashing before I arrived.

I have arrived now

right on time

with unflinching surety

and steel-clad loyalty

a graceful power

in knowing myself best.

Being here came from my own knowing

my own reflections

dissident pathways in love

When the knowing runs deep

it is unshakeable

unmistakeable

unable to be tamed.

Under a canopy of raindrops

I stand on solid ground

feeling timid wood-warm air

unable to be tainted

newfound memories of home.

Sierra Duffey is a queer writer and photographer. She currently lives, works and plays in Montreal (Tiotiá:ke). Through poetry Sierra explores topics such as falling in love, sexuality, movement, identity, and femininity. She often frames her work in the context of nature and the nature of the mind. Late at night, Sierra’s Wikipedia searches delve into the depths of cult psychology and spirituality, which occasionally make an appearance in her artistic endeavors. On her days off, you can find Sierra practicing yoga outside or hiking deep in the woods.