“What is wrong with you” “Talk to us” The number of times I was asked that question In five minutes Did no good. It jolted to life Memories suppressed for years As far back as 60 calendar months. The first distinct memory Was my first night in Aunty’s house. I remember waking up scared Because I was alone. And coughing From the neighbor’s blue tiger generator exhaust seeping into the only window of the room. It’s no surprise I’d wake under such conditions It wasn’t the familiar, clean, crisp, cool air And quiet night I had grown accustomed to From living most of my life in my mother’s town. It was different. It was loud, hot, smoky and choking. What I thought was to be a night of visit Became 365 nights 365 nights to 740 nights 740 nights to 1105 nights And 8 visits from those who left me there in the first place. The second memory that came to me Was the one that haunted me the most The secret in my cupboard. Ifedolapo
Her name is Esther The star of stars She’s bronzed in elegance Enameled in grace. Her strength is in her love Her grit in her courage Her wisdom of a sage She’s a warrior She’s an angel A peace bringer A light and a bridge between worlds She’s a first world wonder In league with the most remarkable of creation The most resilient of flowers That draws the bees from yonder She’s the soft and tough A gentle breeze and turbulent wind She’s fire and ice She’s the queen of hearts Ifedolapo