The Pollen Diaries

By John Poitier Jr.

And suddenly, a windswept flutter

of cherry blossoms—

a blushing tornado—

engulfed my person, and a world

of mourning trees,

their withered hands outstretched

in unheard pleas to God,

wept golden seeds.

Fauna and flora alike

bowed in humble anticipation,

quiet growls and snapping branches in

careful consideration

what secrets their lips had forsaken,

what thoughts their minds had unleashed.

About the Author

John Shaquille Poitier Jr., Virginia State University

John Shaquille Poitier Jr. is a Bahamian-born author, poet, and honors biology major at Virginia State University. He is the author of Mangoes in the Summertime, The Birds, and Son of Elohim, blending themes of faith, identity, and mental health. His work bridges science and storytelling, aiming to heal and inspire across disciplines and cultures.