A protest poem about the personal-political tussle raging within by Dr Molly – exclusively for Different Truths.
it goes on
the tussle
within...
your words,
aren't they
the weapons
to fight out
what you deem
injustice...
the ruthless
taken for grantedness
of the common,
the very ordinary
who silently
bear the brunt
of the
self-seeking
politique
and policies
insane...
polluting
the environ
air, water
rash construction
all around,
be it roads, buildings,
bridges,
the health of
the average
their basic rights
trodden upon...
it goes, it goes,
gross misuse
of public money
for vested
interests
evacuating
appropriating
suffocating
endangering
public health
with hazards
galore.
shh... mum…
they say
why stir
the dust
ruffle feathers!
dust has a
way to
settle down
in its own
time...
hah!
evasive strategy
of wisdom
practical...
but how long
you stifle
your inner
voice
how can
you help
but be on
your own...
fleeing to
cosy shores
taking readers
along
talk of
beauty
love, ease
and peace...
there awaits
the lure
of the rose
the whisper
of wanton
wind
offering solace...
O, poet!
but how can
you ignore
reality
at razor's edge?
the tussle
goes on
within...
isn’t the
personal
political?
Picture design by Anumita Roy
Dr Molly Joseph, a bilingual professor and poet from Kerala, has published 26 books, including 18 poems, two novels, and two storybooks for children. She has edited “A Handbook of Contemporary Ethics” and works for values, global peace, and togetherness. Dr Joseph has won national and international accolades and represents India at SAARC and FOSWAL literature meets. She believes in the power of the word and writes boldly on contemporary matters.
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