You Are Afraid Poem by RIC BASTASA

To write in English is your burden
You fear the grammar of the white man
You are afraid of its intricacies

why?

because your heart is not?

don't mind it, you simply want to share with full respect
to use their language

you could have used your own and be smooth with its facilities
but you also want to be a part of this world

to think american to speak english

who know if
He finds your poem good
Enough if
He feels the beating in your heart that
There is a flow
Of gladness
In your own way of being a part of this humanity that
There is joy
In your outlook that
You have a certain projection
About love sickness death redemption life

who knows?

Honestly
Now go
Write the language where you are
At home
Write the meaning of your riddles
At your convenience
Do not be afraid of English or Indian
Strictures
do not be afraid to commit mistakes
do not be afraid to go to prison

You will speak your language
You will sing your own song

you have been in this prison

for how long?