Burlesque Baby
By El Jae
A woman with a voice as smooth as her liquor-loving name warns the crowd: You are privy to magic tonight, my dears! Silky darkness descends and bathes the awestruck crowd in black, our mouths agape. In a dance choreographed to perfection, the bombshell beauty at centre stage twists and twirls; the flow of her body captivating the room. We watch with rapt attention, her faithful audience sitting thoroughly entranced, waiting for her unique magic. She sheds her first piece of outerwear, playful and confident — a wink here, a giggle there. You like what you see, baby? Sequins and satin are strewn across the stage, garments flying into the laps of her adoring audience. Above the wolf whistles, louder than the sultry jazz, my heart thunders in time with her movement. I sit marvelling at her vulnerability, shedding tears at the joy I see in her eyes.
Nought more natural
Than the sheer brilliance of
A woman like her.
El Jae (they/them) is an Autistic lesbian based in Australia. When they aren't studying for their pre-med exams, El can be found exploring newness and discomfort — most recently through social experience and responding poetry. Follow El's very early-stage journey into the world of burlesque and letting themself be seen on Instagram: @els.spells
