Reeks of alcohol
His body, his breath alike
Shabbily dressed and unkept
With speeches slurred and unclear
Never far from palm wine joints
Where he buys little and gets more
From villagers whom he entertains
He knows everyone and everyone knows him
Including children who call him by his name
Against village norms where elders are respected
He knows who is dating who and their meeting point
He knows who belongs to what and their ploting point
Unexpectedly he regularly appears where he is not wanted
Especially at lovers hidden joints
And the coven of wicked village men
That one wonders the spirit that leads him
He says what same men fear to say
And reveals the secrets of lovers and evil men
He is loquacious but his words are wind of truth
And offenders detest him like a plague
He is the conscience of the community
Where many love him for what he reveals
An embarrassment to family members always
Who have done all to keep the drinks away
His steps are staggered and his direction unsure
He may be going right now but without choice
He suddenly turns left unannounced to go
As if directed by the goods of the land who knows.
(Monday 30 January,2020,6.45am)
This is really a very sad commentary on the drug addiction in our society. You have made the story very interesting by your style of writing, of course with a strong message. Thanks for sharing.10++
A well known drunkard! With the card of his life. Thanks for sharing this poem with us.
Behind the foolishness, the drunken image, lies a wise man. To my list
Completely agree with you Kostas. Thanks for finding this poem worthy of your poem list.
This poem has not been translated into any other language yet.
I would like to translate this poem
A poem which is both serious and humorous. The drunkard can only stagger along, unsure where he is going. Then he changes direction, as if is happening before my eyes. I don't think it is good that he spies on people like lovers and is a busybody regarding other people's private business. So I couldn't call this drunkard 'the conscience of the community'. Inspired writing nevertheless.
Thanks Michael. I appreciate your comment.