Originally intended to be about child labour. Could be a more abstract concept too. |
Amongst flaming Red Gulmohars, Saunter two curious feet: Soft lay the green grasses, Beneath crisp, parched, stubborn barks. The eyes feel around, And finally pause upon A child of juvenile garb; Muddled, tangled tresses That twist and twirl with the wind, Bound on the seams of her forehead Creased with sophistication, Anxiety and Pains of adulthood… Her eyes… Windows to her pilfered soul, As she forages for something That ought to best dwell on minds Decades older. Her back bends, With the weight of a livelihood, And the weight Of the eons of childhood, That pass us by as seconds, But are whisked off her destiny, As her worth is all that can pay. Her body, Fragile, inept at deciphering The Wonders of the World, Flail in feeble rebellion: The kind that sets The Gulmohars on fire, Whilst the sun just pours All unto those who can bear. _______________________________________ Gulmohar trees are also known as- Delonix regia, or the Flamboyant or Royal poinciana. The flowers of this tree bloom bright red and are a contrast to the green canopies of other surrounding trees. |