Marvelling at her expert moves
Like a fan I cheered her prowess
If even only in my heart
As by the fire I sat
Not wanting to leave the fragile structure of wood
Which holds the blackened zinc
I would not go in to relax while her duty she does
She offers a stool to bring comfort
To the open backyard kitchen
Her breast rocks as the axe falls on the firewood
A perfect split, what strength, what accuracy
She is only fifteen, yet prepares the meal with command
She must have learnt from her mother
Who right now should be at farm
I who from the city comes
Have never known one like this
Captivated by her skills I spread out
To take whatever she would give
I was served like Lord
With all respect and honour
To my fill I did eat
Like I never ever did
I never had known one like this
But little girl shouldn’t you be at school
Today, I am not to go
Written by: Oghenero Ezaza
Edited by: Kukogho Iruesiri Samson
