The Oldest Town In Colorado Asked Me to Write A Poem

By Victoria (Tori) Martinez

Have you ever been offered an opportunity that induced immediate excitement, only to later realize it could be one of the hardest things you've ever done?

I was honored to be asked to write a poem about the small Colorado town where I spent every summer with my grandmother. San Luis was celebrating their 175^th anniversary. A momentous occasion. I felt electrified by the opportunity, but after the excitement began to wear off, I felt the weight of responsibility to describe the oldest town in Colorado and its community. How was I going to capture the essence of a place that has shaped 175 years of history and generations of activism, art, and culture.

To say that I began to feel overwhelmed was an understatement. However, I only had two weeks to complete this daunting task. So, I returned to what I know always helps me reflect, find peace, and discover the words I need. That meant going into nature. I walked in the woods, climbed the small hill that led up to a beautiful shrine, and went camping with my mother. We talked about childhood memories of San Luis, what it was like for her growing up there and along with the flood of emotions, came the words I needed. It ended up being a poem of memory and history.

This news might shatter the image you have of an artist and poet and how we create. Yet, I share it anyway, because I just want to be real with you. Creating something new isn’t always easy, but the effort, stress, and process are well worth it when the creation comes into the world and is well received, or even better touches someone’s heart.

I titled this new poem “San Luis.” It was printed in a commemorative magazine for the event. But the most exciting part of all was sharing it from the stage during the town’s annual Santa Ana Fiesta.

I’ve included some images from the event that I hope you enjoy.

Until the next blog...