Ludo

In childhood, I would tug at Mum and say,

“Let’s play!”

Sometimes she could,

Other times, life got in the way.

I would search the house,

A small hand reaching for her time-

But she had three others to care for,

While I only had one: Her,

Now, in adulthood, time has reshuffled.

Mum texts me,

“Mind playing Ludo with me online?”

We’re all so far now-

My siblings, scattered.

She has only me.

And I…

I am the same little girl,

Singular.

Still waiting for her-

But this time,

I am the one occupied with “other stuff.”

And our game of Ludo,

Our time together-

Is never quite done!

But, the void…..

It’s never filled up!

©® Farheen Bhuiyan Nancy

Time Frame: 3.55 pm, MIST, Mirpur Cantonment.

Cultural Contempt

In knowing you, little by little, I cannot deny, That the flaw was not in your nature but in the

Asymmetrical relationship with the cockroach

The cockroach did not know that evolution never taught humans to befriend it, And, It didn’t learn to hide. It

Blue Whale

There was an ocean within me once, It was deep,blue,wide. In that deep blue ocean- Tides shone so bright, Faith

No bond lasts long

Why don’t you believe in people anymore?! – Cause, I don’t want anyone to exploit my reason. How’s that like?!

Empty Shell

You were a beautiful chain whom I binded myself with, You were a self-built cage where I imprisoned myself, You

Audacity

Oh, the audacity of leaving the person you love! To walk away with steady feet, While their heart still trembles

Farheen Akter Bhuian