Kushal’s poem, for Different Truths, is a haunting lunar memory revealing silent communication, magical moments, and a family’s secret past.

In the last lunar event on the other side of the river
I was invited. I used smile where words were needed, 
I am not proficient in their language. The food
made love with my tongue, although I already knew 
that it wouldn't settle well in my stomach. 

The friend who summoned me introduced me
to his little daughter. She loves a Cinderella story. 
Look, the moon has metaphorsed us into myths.
I told her. Look, our footwear is glass. 
We danced to the amusement of others.
A lady with a cat on her lap laughed, swaying 
her head. My grandmother. The girl explained. 
We buried her in our backyard. 

Picture design Anumita Roy

Kushal Poddar

Kushal Poddar, the author of ‘A White Cane for the Blind Lane’ and ‘How to Burn Memories Using a Pocket Torch’, has ten books to his credit. He is a journalist, father of a four-year-old, illustrator, and editor. His works have been translated into twelve languages and published across the globe.

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