MOODS

Lips rounding to squeeze the juicy mango,
licking pulp streaming down fingers,
humming flies on the bin outside
looking for their share of peels.
Water cooler's thirst for buckets of water
pickled mango pieces filling ceramic pots
school books lazing on shelves,
hot afternoons
cajoling snoring siestas.


Wet mud on shoes, bicycle itching for a daily shower,
frogs polishing their singing on little puddles.
Slithery earthworms sneaking through front door,
dripping umbrellas fluttering in wet winds
screeching cars spraying puddle water,
pedestrians gifting expletives to the driver.
Mum's vexation at damp clothes and the hiding sun
Showers assembling the family,
for crispy fritters and hot cardamom tea
Rains, a moist break
for caked earth and denizens.


Teeth grinding refusing to be brushed,
the tap spouting cold water.
Fingers hugging hot cups of milk,
refusing to let go, woollens filling the cupboard.
Scribbling letters on foamy glass windows
other rooms envious of the kitchen
bouncing hot soupy slurps and aromas,

familial warmth tucked in various layers.