Text Prompts
Write about gathering with others. The specifics are up to you.
Image Prompts
Contributed by Ofuma Agali who adds “This is a sitting room of an Art Centre in Ikot Ekpene, south of Nigeria. This place attracts writers and readers alike.”
Fellow poets…I’ve made it to the half-way point…now i’m force-feeding myself saltine crackers and seriously considering the half-marathon “enough” for this year. It’s difficult to write poems while barfing. Blah.
Ode to a Nigerian Piece of Art
O Thou unbeaten unsounded circular percussion !
I admire Thee !
Placed elegantly in bride like silence
in historical African time
your smooth skin silky top, classically stitched
with legendary leather, patterns criss crossed holds
to secure the haunting beats-
What romantic tales bang out
what messages sweet
what calls for secret help
what melodies or saddened grievs
O Thou Classic Beat !
flanked by sturdy woven seats
and a royal blue vase to complete
the ancient kingdom’s high seat
O Thou African Beauty!
I admire Thee !
Thou hast thy music and grace
Soon the silence will break
thou shalt remain for ever
Beating out love and eternal peace.