IROKO

Tall you are, the giant of African forests
Ancient, older like the soil
Than the mortal goons of Adam’s race.
I wish to share in your strength
Standing strong amidst nature’s clout
The memory of lovers’ secret moments
Bearing the stains of sacrifices and prey,
and death threats by the logger’s steps.
Your age has seen it all.
Floating mortuary of the sea, abattoir of the mill
I sit, I eat, and I drink and keep my things
Gazing at your vast empire, the rain forest
In hand, a deceased relation with a bushy head
I pick my hue from your leafy green
Lively or lying in state
And paint a picture of your beauty
Hoping to hear your sylvan tongue.