Note: The word mamihlapinatapei is derived from the Yaghan language of Tierra del Fuego, listed in The Guinness Book of World Records as the "most succinct word", and is considered one of the hardest words to translate. It allegedly refers to "a look shared by two people, each wishing that the other will offer something that they both desire but are unwilling to suggest or offer themselves." - Wiki
I can see the looks in her eyes
revealing in silence
Will he or won't he?
She is ready to accept, I know!
I'm waiting!
I know she wants me to say it
What is holding him back?
I can read her like a book
Is he still unsure?
I have seen women with such glassy eyes
What else can I do?
She is now fidgeting
Is it proper for a girl to initiate
I think she is asking questions in her mind
Will that appear cheap?
She is still asking!
How long will this go on?
She wants me to pop the question
Why can't he blurt it out of his heart?
I must muster all the courage
I love him with all my heart!
Well here goes....
Will you marry me?
Yes, my darling! yes!
Personal Note: This is based on a real story
Written for Mindlovemisery Menagerie #62 - mamihlapinatapei
and Mary's hosting at PU's Poetry Pantry #208
This is wonderful! ! It's like one can feel that anticipation! Oh I've been here, so many times... not for marriage, but, the feeling is very well translated. :)
ReplyDeleteYou have really captured that giddiness, intensity, and tenderness powerful write and wonderful explanation at the beginning!
ReplyDeleteThis is your story I think Hank! :) I know that look and feeling (sigh:)
ReplyDeletethis is wonderful Hank and what a title !!! my tongue is a bit hurt :D
ReplyDeletethanks for the new vocab and the thought of just say it!!! :)
ReplyDeleteYour poem is the perfect illustration for that word, Hank! I like the way you showed how both protagonists wonder and waver.
ReplyDeletecute and sweet... men can wait so long... women grow impatient :)
ReplyDeletehow romantic Hank, love the based on a true story part!, and Hank thank you for your wishes.
ReplyDeleteLovely Hank, an excellent take on this prompt. Very well done and based on a reality.
ReplyDeleteHank, I bet this is your story too. Smiles. I am glad someone got up the courage. Smiles.
ReplyDeletegood on her for taking the initiative...oy, someone has to...i could not last in all that passiveness just waiting...ha...
ReplyDeleteWell, someone has to ask the question, smiles ~ Sweet ending Hank & I hope it works out well for both of them ~
ReplyDeleteHank, I am wondering if you have any photos of your area you could share for Poetry Pantry. I think they would be interesting! Let me know.
ReplyDeleteYes Ma'am! I'll go around and snap some current ones shortly!
DeleteHank
Thanks, Hank. That would be great!!
DeletePersonal story - yours? Yeah, she's anxious to say yes and he's terrified she'll say no. Or terrified she'll say yes. Either way!
ReplyDeleteJust waiting there would sure make the anticipation rise and get one to want to blurt it out, your story at your sea?
ReplyDeleteYes, I do feel the awkwardness, embarrassment of that intense moment, Hank. Ow, it just happens without reason.... Loved it.
ReplyDeleteA very romantic story..those intense moments when time seems endless as you wait in anticipation..thanks for sharing this personal story. Have a lovely day Hank
ReplyDeleteI luv the YES, thanks for sharing that amazing word. Happy you linked in at my Sunday meme
ReplyDeleteMuch love...
It's wonderful! marvelous! I've learned a new word! Thanks, Hank :)x
ReplyDelete..and it wasn't even February 29 th :-)
ReplyDeleteThe poem interprets the picture to perfection - and the eternal dilemma of love.....do I speak and reveal myself? I love that it is also a true story!!!!!
ReplyDeleteBeing based on a true story adds into its charm and romance. Beautiful.
ReplyDelete-HA
Aw this makes me happy Hank! Beautiful!
ReplyDeleteVery sweet :)
ReplyDeleteI love poems based on true stories.
ReplyDeleteThat's quite a word! I think your poem is a perfect illustration for it!
ReplyDeleteThe poem expresses the word perfectly and dear kay has happened with me also ;)
ReplyDeleteI could feel the anticipation and the worry on `her`part...not wanting to be forward...that is, in my days, it would have been forward:) Well done!!! Oliana
ReplyDeleteSo from the heart...
ReplyDeleteHer emotions and dilemma well depicted!
How amazing that there is a word to sum up a look which almost defies description!
ReplyDeleteLove this give and take--so accurately down to the final yes.
ReplyDeleteI loved this. And that word just sums it up as your poem lays out exactly how many of us feel, how I feel in fact, when people just won't say it like it is. Say it if you mean it. And if you love someone, tell them. Life is short. Thanks for sharing this lovely poem.
ReplyDelete