No matter what my enemies have taken away from me,
I will still fight, even if it means losing one of my eyes.
I am still that Queen!
My crown they tried to take from me, my lips they tried to silence.
But as long as I fight to keep my composure,
even though pieces of me have faded,
Everyone will still see.
I will always and forever be that Queen!
I will never completely lose face! I must continue!
© Nelly Vee
“Queen of Clay” is a moving testament to resilience and unwavering self-worth, depicting a woman who refuses to yield her identity despite loss and hardship. The imagery of fading into the abyss or losing parts of oneself symbolizes deep struggles, yet the repeated affirmation, “I am still that Queen!” powerfully asserts her defiance and determination to persevere. Inspired by an unknown photographer’s work, this poem channels raw emotion into an empowering reminder that even in adversity, one’s essence and strength remain unshaken. Credit to the unknown author of the photo that evoked this piece.