Olúmọ etched an epitaph
She inked a testament of tears
For her son’s fate was annulled
Home Is Where Our Tears Are Stored in Big Barrels | a CỌ́N-SCÌÒ poem by Igbokwe Roseline
And I tell you again that this home
Of mine is a mischief/milkmaid; milking tears from citizens
Untitled | a CỌ́N-SCÌÒ poem by Ivan De Monbrison
he was like a sexless mummy
resurrected from the grave
a castrated Lazarus
Street’s Song | a CỌ́N-SCÌÒ poem by Osho Tunde Matthew
A poet sitting by his shadow, his empty
cylinder, nothing to fire his hope tonight.
Dear Editor, | a CỌ́N-SCÌÒ poem by Sa’ada Isa Yahaya
What do you do to a god who saves not, but kills its own?
Should it be starved of a kolanut & palm oil? Perhaps, songs?
Màámi | a CỌ́N-SCÌÒ poem by Adeniran Abdbasit Adeyemi
Never shall I forget I forget you
‘SURUGEDE: A DANCE OF THE SPIRITS’ / ‘ANCESTRAL STORYLINE’ / ‘AGENT UBUNTU’ | three poems by Joshua Omeke
The poems celebrate African heritage, highlighting traditional dances, ancestral stories, and significant figures like Desmond Tutu. It emphasizes the importance of preserving cultural traditions and the wisdom passed down through generations.
THREE POEMS ABOUT CHILDHOOD | by Ivan de Monbrison
The talented poet offers three evocative poems about childhood. The first reflects on a past marked by fragmented reality and emotional turmoil. The second explores the hollow nature of existence with a sense of drowning in meaninglessness. The third depicts an escape from confinement, only to confront an erasure of identity.
‘The Cradle in Mama’s Old Room | a poem by Saadatu Uzairu
The poem reflects on the memories and emotions associated with a cradle that symbolizes motherhood and lost hopes. It captures the silent grief and enduring pain of a mother who keeps the cradle as a blessing despite the sorrows.
‘TO HEAL A BUTTERFLY’ / ‘LIBERATION’ | two poems by Mayowa Oladeji
“To Heal a Butterfly” is a poignant portrayal of a girl’s traumatic and abusive childhood, searching for safety and solace. “Liberation” captures personal and societal struggles, touching on grief, love, and the quest for freedom amidst adversity. Written by Mayowa Oladeji, a Nigerian poet and playwright, it highlights themes of pain, resilience, and hope.