Chameleon Poem by Gunadi Widyanto

Is this supposed to be like this?
The life that I have to live for.
Joy it is as I now notice
Colorful skin bring me no bore.

Let's begin with since I was born.
Mother's joy got me my life alone.
A baby born should bring no mourn
For my parents to name me Leon.

Leon! Leon! as my father called
My name to brought me back from sleep.
Soon I have been ready in blue bold
Uniform suit with me paper clip.

That day I learned mathematic
Just like the others before me.
That day I served problem's critic
Just like the others around me.

Music cheers my somber whole day.
I tickled the strings that's normal,
Running my fingers tried rhythmic lay
Down by music tutor dressed formal.

The next day, the test day came by.
When I rested my practice at place
And when the others did same gay.
I got my color for the grace.

Years passed, did I even care how?
I followed my parents orders,
Why did I feel stupid cow
Followed me since my infant years?

It was different in my teen.
Leon! Leon! as my mother called.
Why don't you do what you're keen?
O yeah! I got my explore called!

I thought it was my freedom, God
For I have seen so many love.
I thought it was my anthem, Lord
For I have made so many rove.

Wrong it proven to be so right
As I did the same gay I wrack
In my infant years that's not bright.
"Chame-Leon", that's my new pack.

Friends, oh yeah, I have so many.
‘Cause my skin designed to bring joy
To everyone within my canny,
Little trick it was I deploy.

Colorful skin brought me no more.
Hinted by a wise man once I know,
Sure it is no bore, but what's more?
Chameleon is green! I know!

I wish my story's just a tale.
‘Cause if it's true I will be frail.
‘Cause if it's true I won't be gale.
‘Cause if it's true, no, I can't fail!


Widyanto Gunadi (b.1991)