ODE: "KEEPER OF THE SPRINGS" BY SUMAILA UMAISHA

(for Femi Osofisan)

He is a lion who could
have been an elephant,
combined,
but chose antelope tracks,
paving pace for
tender soles; seekers
of ancient springs.

Like a warrior after battle
who would not rest
but drags dawn past midday,
he spoon-feeds us ancestral
helpings; ìnyó, ewedu, amala,
goat head,
bigger than the calabash,
poetry running raw
in bards’ throats.

You have worked
without hours;
the stage shall walk
with you to the path’s end.

(c) SUMAILA UMAISHA

-Nigeria

This poem is a heartfelt tribute to Femi Osofisan, celebrating his contributions as a playwright and poet. The poet, Sumaila Umaisha, uses rich metaphors to praise Osofisan's humility and impact, likening him to a lion choosing "antelope tracks" and a warrior nourishing others with ancestral wisdom. The poem highlights Osofisan's dedication to his craft, "working without hours", and predicts his legacy will endure. Cultural references to Nigerian cuisine and traditions add depth, making this a touching ode that honors Osofisan's influence on literature and society.