The Giant Seashell’s Song / Poem by Vatsala Radhakeesoon

Poem by Vatsala Radhakeesoon


The Giant Seashell’s Song

I dive down
the tropical blue sea
I rest my head
on the magical pillow
of the giant
unique seashell
Mystic soothing music
from the lyre
of the oracle
enchants
my poetic ears

The song of present,
past and future
of life
catches
my full attention
Never will I forget
these lyrics:

“Love
unreachable
unpractical
unjust
To and fro
in life have come

O Heart!
Now no more!
O Mind!
Now be wise!
O Soul!
Now awaken!

Poets need
emotional support
Poets can’t
live alone
So come on
dear poet,
wrap yourself
in my arms’ warmth

But who said
all those?
Did I?
Oh no, no!
No! Dear Poet
You met
the shoulders
of double-faced
Illusion

In 21st century
poets are no sissies
In 21st century
poets are not as fragile
as soft lilies

This is the century
of fighter-poets
The dawn of
practical poets

O men and women
who think of themselves
as the clever bands
amidst the foolish brands!
Never underestimate
my children –
the visionaries,
the poets!
Pay heed
to my words
the words
of the prophet!

The poet has
the strongest heart
the bravest mind
the purest soul

They were,
They are
They will be
never afraid
to face the world
all alone
with the mastery
of their Poetry.”