Tell me about yourself, Melanie

 

You guessed it, I was born and raised in the South Bronx. I am a first generation Guatemalan, currently pursuing both my law degree and masters in Urban Planning. My goal is to return and help revitalize my community, and that is one of the reasons the Bronx Native caught my attention. It is a safe space and we need more centers in the Bronx that focus on the arts, whether it is accomplished through poetry, music, or even the artwork displayed on the merchandise. I have always written my poems in private, but my outlet while growing up was dancing ballet, tap, and jazz, amongst other genres. 

 

No longer burning is a reflection of my childhood in the Bronx. I would play in the open fire hydrants— a memory that is kept alive by many youths who still do. Altogether, it serves as a reminder of what the Bronx has been able to overcome and I am excited to join the marathon towards improving it! 

 

 

 

 

 

No Longer Burning

By Melanie

 

I grew up running through the pompas

in a community that is no longer burning

 

But whats concerning? 

 

The dictionary defines ghetto and its inhabitants 

As an "isolated or segregated area or group"

 

But not me,

I run freely through the pompas in a community 

that is no longer burning

 

I am bringing a first generation of life back into my community

 

Oh

you’re from there?

I am observed from a distance like a Ceiba tree

 

Trying to spread its roots

from the underworld into the heavens

 

But they do not dare cut me down,

as I am watered by these pompas 

running in the streets

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