why does minerva write poems? why is she black and blue when she comes to visit esperanza

Minerva writes poetry to sooth her much tormented soul. She breaks up and gets back together with him frequently. He is both physically and emotionally abusive to her. This is why she visits Esperanza "black and blue". Minerva's poetry also draws the two together though Esperenza separates herself a little. Minerva is a cautionary tale to Esperenza about relationships and marriage.

Minevra writes poems because her husband beats her. That is also why she is black and blue