Tethered

Swaying
to
and fro
to silent music
leaves clapping with
the evening rain
in a wooded mountain valley
or along the river grasses
to the south.

Swaying
to the dance
of childhood games
as my mother
watched over us.

Swaying
to the beat
of small drums and bells
chants for festivals
when the gate are open
a soothing lullaby.
Swaying
to remember
birds
and drops of soothing rain
on painted skin
bloodshed and dotted.

Swaying
my step’s rhythm
as harassing viewers
ask questions
of rite and ritual
with painted meaning
and grotesque spectacle.

Swaying
under flowing
red silk
and priestly burden
through raped streets
tethered.

Temple Elephant
Madurai, India
after lunch
12 July 2010