the morning after love

one moon since he who loved those who love
had life stolen off him
one moon since hearts sang
for the hearts that made them dance

and here i am
you in my head
the moon birthing noon
and you’re in my head
playing strings
that bring shine to my face

and though this moon says bye
the music never ends
my head is where you live
and though sometimes you leave
you find your way back
my heart is your home

so fare thee well, love martyr
and thy moon

welcome, my beloved
hold my hand
let’s walk
together
today
always
-and if your feet do not tire-
forever

Igwe m

my mother, her mother and her mother's mother
were known for their (re)silence

but me, born into chaos,
arrived rioting
and I learnt to roar
so when I scream
beloved,
it is not to raise the hairs on your skin
lift my skirt
see the fire on my bottom
only you can quench it, beloved

-Your Lolo