THE NEIGHBORHOOD
I would love to hear what you think about this poem. Envision a ghetto setting in any part of Lagos or Nigeria as a whole. I guess you’ll understand the meaning of this poem.
The imperial sun blazing in majestic fury
Kissed the soil in deep heat
As a passionate lover would his beloved,
Howbeit, the NEIGHBOURHOOD would not condescend
To the sun's passionate display of affection
For only lyanu and Michael
Who were yet not married
Displayed such show of affection;
However, it was always shortlived because
Whenever Michael smoke or drunk,
He always found lyanu to be at fault
As he was never wrong.
Moans and kisses, tender strokes and releases,
Emeka and his siblings witnessed
For his father never tired of seeing his wife
In beautiful wrappers whenever their father was home;
In like manner, every year witnessed
New birth in Mama Tokunbo’s home,
For her husband was a fan of God’s gifts;
Even the ashawos and agberos always hustling,
Pray to God to bless their hustle;
And a regular sight it was to find
Disposed babies either dead or alive
Notwithstanding the rise of single parenthood
In our ever lively and rugged neighbourhood.
— — —
Key words: Ashawo (prostitute), Agbero(Street thug) and God’s gift (children)
Thank you!!!
#Read, Clap 👏 (50), Comment and Share#
