I saw him for the last time
Just before reaching
The curve on the road.
The time was that of spring.
The four persons were carrying
The palanquin with utmost care!
A strong aroma of citrus flower hung
In air along the path he took!
I too was proceeding forward counting
The waves of his footsteps.
I too shone like gold purified by fire.
Crossing many such zigzag roads
I have finally arrived at the last frontier.
Now the evening and daybreak means
The same for me.
A sky befitting my becoming a star
Should be here somewhere for me to touch.
I am sitting impatiently at the window
Watching the hazy road.
Here too, the moon makes
An appearance in the sky.
Not charming though!
I try to feel the position of the Sun from its heat,
Near me or right on top of the head!
Perhaps this is that familiar curve on the road,
Before turning which
I saw him for the last time.
Can the limitations of freshness be overcome?
Every star shines brilliantly
Before turning into black hole !
Source : HUMMING A PIECE OF SOLITUDE
Poems of ROUSAN ARA BEGUM
Translated by SYED AHMED SHAH
