I’m going to get out of here. Some day. I’m working on it. Spurred by the voices in conflict next door, I look at the ads in the paper. Not now. Maybe, not ever. I butter my stale bread while I look at the television screen that has random colourful lines dancing onscreen. Green/Red/Blue/ and …
Myself, caretaker.
Who you? Wait there woenly. You who? You wanting admission for your childrens? Nice boys. Twins woenly, no? What your names? Tom and Jerry? No? Ajay and Vijay? Verry nice! Commeere, don’t hide Mummy’s backside. I have chocolate for you. Here, take. No? Very shy no, Medam? Office? Sorry, office is close till next week …
Woes of Sympathy
I go about the business of my life, shunned by those who hold their head high. Yes, the Proud. They don’t need me. Despite their dwindling numbers, they are still a reproach to Society. I’ve come a long way trying to help them find solace. Solace, indeed. Let me tell you how I tried. I …
Head above Water
I’ve always wanted the best view from my window. This. Cascading water. The bustle that I could ignore. The peace. An address that read- 24/7, Head above Water Retreat, Off the Road… It was either this or the meds. Did I really have a choice? I was asked where I would feel good. It was …
The A-J Handbook of an Alienist.
A is for Alienist. Here comes the Alienist. Watch her as she dusts her framed diploma and gathers her tales of woe for the day. She walks the murky path of troubled souls and collects a few trophies along the way. Ah, this will add a glitter to the halo she has installed around her …
Pettifoggers Anonymous
Let's face it. We are a critical lot. I happened to appreciate an acquaintance in the presence of a few well-wishers. After a few minutes, in the lull of the conversation a well-meaning do-gooder sidled up to me and tried to set the record straight. Actually, he… The conversation grew intensely uncomfortable. I cast a …
The Waters of Lethe
systole/diastole diabolic rhythm an unwilling heart clogged roads life courses most reluctantly systole/diastole brash waves drive from behind inevitable and unavoidable foxtrot on the treadmill tango with wires pounding waves pulsed into spray on ticker systole/diastole a coded tempo decrees control systole/diastole a heart much maligned cannot be repaired systole/ diastole measures walls of my …
Divine charms
On a hillock I reside, removed from all inhabitation. Steps hewn into granite lead you to me. Your breath is tested, your feet calloused, as you strive to reach me. I wait patiently, watching over you, from the innermost recesses of my sanctum sanctorum. My vision pierces clear even through layers of fragrant sandalwood paste, …
Stone Sangria
You. Consider this. Sangria and Stone. Blood and Marble. Dramatic contrast. The creation of a free spirit? Not really. Speculation is rife. In love? Hmmmm. Committed? Who? Not really. Wedded? This one? Really? Remained unwed? Really! Rendered unsuitable. Now. Officially. Smiles a lot? What’s cooking? Enthusiastic? Must be on steroids. Thoughtful? Maybe suicidal. Rubs palms …
Potent Potions
Believe me, you don’t really want to know me before I’ve downed these three cups in the morning. It takes three different concoctions to make me this fabulously effervescent, fascinating and gorgeous creature from the grumpy, sullen and dour monster that I really am. I fumble around the kitchen, in the ungodly hour before dawn, …