Custard Apple Vendor
I look at the green crocodile balls placed in handcrafted bamboo basket
They look ripe and tempting.
The snake skinned vendor looks at me with hopeful eyes
His turtle legs skin with every vein visible is a testimony of many days of hunger
He wears a wrinkled robe of silk over them
His brahminy blindsnake skin glistens in sun
An amazing will power to survive despite odds keeps him going.
I know he will gladly give me a huge discount for his meager earnings determines his dinner
Filled with pity, I buy a kilo and hand over a thousand rupee note to him
He looks at me puzzled
"I don't have change for such a big amount"
"Keep the change", I say
He flatly refuses
"I will have only what I earn
I am not a beggar
I will get change from nearby shop"
"You give me whole basket", I respond
He displays his moony teeth
His face gleams in joy
I am reminded of full moon night
He quickly packs my fruits
offers free home delivery
I lack strength despite good food
He is strong despite hunger
I feel sad and depressed at times
He inspires life is meant for living happily with smile in face
As I walk back home
I resolve to be happy
I have no right to be sad!
06.08.2021
For Emile Pinet imagism contest
Copyright © Rama Balasubramanian | Year Posted 2021
Post Comments
Poetrysoup is an environment of encouragement and growth so only provide specific positive comments that indicate what you appreciate about the poem. Negative comments will result your account being banned.
Please
Login
to post a comment