I like the diagonal sense of the fronds. I might play with levels or curves to enrich the depth of the overall tones. The focus seems to be on the one in the lower right corner or maybe I need more coffee. ;~p
In terms of the focusing, most of it has to do with the f/3.5, such a narrow DoF doesn't help the photo. The bokeh in the back is good in that it's not distracting, but I would have to agree that it does lack a little punch and over all ingenuity. Remember also, that your main subject doesn't have to lay in the middle of the frame.
I think this is an interesting composition and a nice pattern out of something we might otherwise miss. Unfortunately though, it lacks a bit of punch...something to make it stand out or really create interest.
I like the diagonal sense of the fronds. I might play with levels or curves to enrich the depth of the overall tones. The focus seems to be on the one in the lower right corner or maybe I need more coffee. ;~p