Another Day In Africa
In Africa another day is born
At dawn
The optimist awakes
To a world that’s bright with receding night
Hope and promise of things new
A world where dreams come true
In Africa another day is done
At dusk with setting sun
The pessimist seems right
In the fading light
Of yet another day
Where despair and failure
Lie strewn along his way
Africa’s sun at noon
Hangs suspended in the sky
Held in equilibrium
And pulled between the two
This dark continent illuminated
Her wonders and woes exposed, juxtaposed
And in the balance
Dangles her destiny
Rhythmic people sing their songs prolifically
In unmatched harmonies
Ladies curtsey in respect
Where culture holds the sway
Noisy kids at play
The epitome of community
They learn to serve and share and care
Well muscled men with pride defend
Their dark identity
Your people with poise and patience
Meekness and strength
Move along unhurriedly
You’re blessed abundantly
Game runs free
Stunning lakes and rivers, forests and plains
And summer rains
Busy markets bustling with traders
And splashed with colour
All enhance your wonder
Africa the cradle of humanity
If true begs a question or two
Why have you not advanced?
And why are you so poor?
Hungry children with hollow eyes
Roam around in rags
Corrupt dictators with degrees
Have learned to take a bribe
Your breadbasket has become a begging bowl
Migrants in their thousands leave your shores
Because of wars
In search of greener fields
With arrogance you name and blame
It’s not your fault
So you become the victim
The one entitled to
You’re held in chains and still not free
Although you brag of
Madiba’s legacy
Post Comments
Poetrysoup is an environment of encouragement and growth so only provide specific positive comments that indicate what you appreciate about the poem. Negative comments will result your account being banned.
Please
Login
to post a comment
Turn off ads, get more exposure for your poetry, and get more features with a
Premium Membership.
