I - an ancient river - am old and wise
On-the-go always, in the hills I rise.
My journey is long, as I tumble down hills
And into the oceans my water spills.
When dark clouds gather and it rains
I crawl over banks to flood my plains.
I bless all the fields with mineral-rich soil,
So you can grow grain, without any toil.
Having hurried down mountains, I stop to breathe
Meandering and lazy as slow as I please.
I sprawl out and flatten, reflecting the sky
The clouds and birds as they fly in the high.
The fishermen throw in their nets to catch
Fish I am rich in, batch after batch.
Deep in my belly the brave divers find
Pink and white pearls of every kind.
I - an ancient river - I am rich
I have plenty of wealth and I like to give.
Water I give, and fresh fish to eat,
I let you ride me: boat, canoe – fleet!
But, you! O human, you! What have you done?
You’ve used me and trashed me, spoilt all the fun.
You have taken my joy, now
I am filthy and grey,
Head low, I flow slow, with nothing to say.
Afshan Ali
