Hojas de Otoño (Autumn Leaves) is a compilation of poetry from Anahuac. Xahel Galicia combines the rich experience of her youth in rural Mexico, her working years in the United States, and her wisdom as an elder to bring young readers a taste of their own bilingual and bicultural heritage. Just as Xahel's grandmother spoke in poetic verse with her mother, Xahel was raised to see the world through a poets eyes. For Xahel, a river was never described as water, rather the flowing liquor of the Earth that wraps around the Mother's skirt. Autumn Leaves is a collection of unique short poems which include important topics such as love, immigration, solitude, justice, Mexican culture, and the Red Road (i.e. the life-path of respect). Whether pondering the cyclical nature of death in "Rebirth", or rejoicing with the undocumented mother reunited with her family in "Liberty", or discovering the roots of an ancient Aztec tradition in "The Dance", the reader will connect to his/her own world through poetic reflection. Each poem, originally written in Spanish, has an English translation. Many poems include words in Náhuatl, the indigenous language of the Aztecs. Bilingual students will delight to see how meaning and depth can fluctuate in poetry depending on the natural variations in language. Autumn Leaves is also a collection of photography, intricate drawings, and famous paintings from local Oregon artists. For many students the visual arts are just as important as the written word. The images included in this book are meant to inspire the young reader's imagination. So, tiahui! Go forward! Let your mind and heart delve into the world of poetry, art and culture! This is a bilingual (Spanish-English) book published by Red Road Books. "Xahel Galicia is a warrior of words, who dips her pen into the core of the earth for inspiration and strength. Her poetry is a call to action, to battle for justice, dance for love, and revel in the divine..." -Olga Sanchez, Miracle Theatre Director.
About the Author: Xahel Galicia Ponce was born in the small town Yecapixtla, in the beautiful state of Morelos, México. There the people live from farming and agriculture. Xahel's father, Captain Delfino Galicia, was a veteran of the Zapatista Revolution, in which he joined as a young boy propelled by his ideals. He is actually considered a hero from the Revolution. Xahel's mother, Ernestina Ponce, was a beautiful woman and poet who dedicated heart and soul to administrating family affairs. Of equal importance, are Xahel's siblings, Elvira and Ruben, who both guided her on the road of honor, work, and justice. In all of their teachings and advice, poetry was always present. The entire family versed poems with ease, and loved all manifestations of art. Today Xahel's parents, along with Elvira and Ruben, reside with God in another dimension. These poems come to light to honor and bless their memory.