Francis’ poem dwells on life’s relentless rhythm; we tirelessly strive, but our hearts beat a drum that drives us to barely survive, for Different Truths.
Left and right
Day and night
Up and down
From dusk till dawn
All day long
It had been the beat all along
Toiling without rest
Trying your best.
Dad! So all along is your heart’s drum
Driving you hard like rum.
Alas! The life we are holding dearly
Is hanging barely.
Picture design Anumita Roy
Francis Otole is a poet and author. His works have appeared in local and international magazines, journals, and anthologies. His debut collection of poems, Heaven is a Place on Earth made the shortlist of ANA- Association of Nigerian Authors poetry prize, 2024.His latest publication is Chants of the Black Woman[poems]. He loves reading and writing. His marriage to his lovely wife is blessed with a set of twins.
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