Now That I Live

Poetry
Written By Olinya Ibeh Abuchi

Speak of my goodness now that I live,

Tell of my good name now that I can perceive.

It should not be that on my last bed,

You will wash my name with spittle full of glory

So futile that my rag will not smile at your story.

 

Help my poor hands now that I live,

Give to my empty stomach now that I can receive.

It should not be that on my last bed,

You will feed my mourners with food full of mockery.

My remains will not commend your icky pleasantry.

 

Cherish me now that I live

Prove your love to me now that I can believe.

It should not be that on my last bed,

You will come to shed the waters of Calvary.

Then, my rot will be unable to nod to your che-mystery.

Olinya Ibeh Abuchi

Olinya Ibeh Abuchi is a Nigerian born writer and teacher. His works include short fictions, poetry, playlets, and essays. He refers to himself as a “Pidgin-English grammarian” and studies English, Literature, and Education at the University of Benin, Nigeria. Olinya writes from a corner of his room in Lagos and sometimes from his desk in Benin.


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