"THE FORKTALE BEYOND THE RIVER" BY KHULACHENGA

It is far beyond from my knowledge

How long it has lived on earth;

Perhaps it danced the last Jubilee

Few ages ago.

But the senility of its body announces

It has completed centuries.

Now it walks like an oxcart

When knees of donkeys are shivering;

Now it talks like a little one,

No energy to push the voice out the throat;

Now it stands taller than a normal human,

All the flesh sunk in starvation.

One of the days that shall see me,

I will step out of home

With a parcel of corn and oil.

I feel pity for Mister Pasi 

Pasipalela.

© KHULACHENGA

- Singapore 

The poem describes an ancient, frail figure whose long life is evident in its weakened body and trembling movements. The imagery emphasizes senility, hunger, and physical decline, creating a mix of awe and pity toward the figure. Ultimately, the speaker expresses compassion, planning to offer food as a gesture of care for Mister Pasi Pasipalela.