Red Dragonfly

By Kieran

 Red Dragonfly



Original loose watercolour artwork and poem of a Red Dragonfly by Kieran Gonsalves (c) 2025, inspired by *aka-tombo*, the rich Japanese symbolism of this remarkable insect, with lessons for us all


Red is the universal colour of life forces of passion, courage, and strength
A dragonfly at rest symbolises the island of Japan, curved along its length

*Red Dragonfly* inspired Akitsushima, in ancient mythology, the name of Japan
Morphing from an insignificant nymph to a fearsome insect in  a short lifespan

'Tis a powerful metaphor for our own transformations from the depths of despair 
Ready to take on life’s challenges with a dash of penchant 'n a splash of fanfare

Their energetic flight propels them purposefully forward always, never backwards
Another powerful lesson for us to keep on keeping on till we get life's rewards

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