Scarlet in the Wild. A Metaphor of Power & Peril.

Shades of scarlet, a color that stands out—untamed, unbridled and bold in the natural world.
Does it fear its own visibility? Does it wonder if by being so vibrant, it exudes danger?

What if it could hide? Like a leaf blending into the background, or a self-conscious flower, withdrawing from the eyes of those eager to take what they want? Would it feel safer if it wasn’t so exposed?

Yet, it stands — out in the open, fully aware of its power. Its resilience lies in its vibrancy, in the way it can both attract and be a sign of dangers. It’s a color that commands attention.

Isn’t it curious how something so bold could unsettle the world around it? The flora and fauna either avoid it, sensing a trap, or embrace it as sustenance.

Red holds a duality—a power that speaks of both danger and thriving .

Scarlet/Red, a colour rich with symbolism, evokes multiple meanings. It captures attention, signifies fertility and vitality. Yet, it also serves as a warning, associated with danger and emergencies. Scientifically, scarlet’s low refractive index makes it easily spottable in low-visibility environments.

Scarlet seems to reflect the experiences of those facing inequalities related to caste, gender, age, class & more. Just as scarlet stands out in the wild, individuals at risk who speak up about systemic injustices also become visible, which can make them vulnerable to being silenced by those in power. However, this act of speaking up has a dual purpose—though it exposes them to risk, it also brings about necessary change. Their voices can create a more supportive environment, allowing those at risk to not only survive but thrive, ultimately leading to more equitable spaces.

writer's note

disclaimer

The views and reflections stated throughout the blog, are based on personal experiences. Please exercise discretion as to the aspects you consume and the ones you don’t.
Reading and consuming content from these blogs are not to be considered a substitute for taking therapy services.