BALLAD OF A TREE

BALLAD OF A TREE
by: Dowell Ighohwo Oba
Feathers of warmth
Leafy shade from draught
It was a tree, a lonely tree
Clearly termed the ebelebo tree.
Hands to reach and beckon the world
Sounding to all with mouths like sword.
Edges sharp to lead a trail
A trail as long as a path of rail.
At the sound of its bell leads the way
A bell as loud as the temple’s pray
Calling the names of merchants, proceed
To let them meet in a shade as seed,
Sealing their joy from turmoils of fear
Pouring out warmth from leaves it bear.
Planted for a purpose defined by nature
Growing tall a destiny to nurture
Dramatically fulfilling a cause by actors
A cast and crew like that of pastors.
In times of glare from lights so bright
Shielding of lovers from eyes, their right
To explore their love the fullest of joy
And stand no chance of being so coy.
A tree for all, a tree we’ve drove
From bearing fruits to a tree of love;
Fixing of meetings to actualize some plans
Clearing of hearts from burdens of clans.
Seen many scenes and viewed several plots
Standing tree on passions from lots,
Viewed several tears and broke many winds
A shade after a fall to unleash our finds.