Poetry by Rowan Evans

Author’s Note

This poem is me claiming my lane—and hers. Some love isn’t gentle. Some love doesn’t whisper. Some love says fuck off to anyone who dares mess with the person you care about.

It’s about seeing yourself, owning your power, and then using it to carve out a safe, unshakable space for someone else. It’s protective. It’s fierce. It’s loyal. And yes… it’s a little bit savage, because sometimes love has to be.

Consider it a love letter, a shield, and a warning—all rolled into one.

Mahal Ko Ako
Poetry by Rowan Evans

They think I don’t really like myself,
because I sometimes say I hate myself—
but really, I’m always feeling myself.

So I’ll say it simply—mahal ko ako,
I’m somebody nobody can fuck with.

Trust me, I know—pangit ako,
I didn’t just forget; I own a mirror.
I know what I look like,
but I know what I can give.

So when you think something cruel,
I’ll say it before you can.
I’ll take that power away from you.
A bully with no power—
they’re just noise.

Now—let’s switch focus.

Yeah—
I’m looking at you, asshole.
You add stress on her.
Unnecessary stress.

Me?
I ease the storm.
Give her a safe place
to rest.

When her world caves in,
who does she run to?

Here’s a hint:
it isn’t you.

And just so we’re clear—
when you fuck up, I hear about it.
Like when you said…

You liked her for her dominance?
But her attitude is too much?
That’s a skill issue.

Are you a man or a boy?
Sounds like…
You’re a little bitch.

Then, with such audacity,
you said she was too pretty—
that no white guy would like her
because she’s “not exotic enough.”

Hi—white guy here.
And I’m white,
as fresh snow.
I like her just fine.
Exactly as she is.

One more thing—
“Exotic”? Not for people, asshole.
That’s for cars only.

Fuck you.
Have a nice day.

For more of my poetry, you can find it here: The Library of Ashes