A Tree House

The rubble was still rising
after the direct hit. The
private dens were in ruins.
Salicin? Do you know the─

willow-bark? My father said,
the spirit of the tree healed
and removed the suffering
and pain of man.

Celebrating the cease of
fire, death moves in a circle,
seeking the truce between the─
cage free neighbours.

Don’t pull out the tubers, the
roots. The ancient souls─
live in them. The psyche, you
will have to read off mute greens.

Ask the questions. From the wounded
earth, will be an electric response.

Satish Verma