A journal of art + literature engaging with nature, culture, the environment & ecology

Two poems by Ow Yeong Wai Kit

Ow Yeong Wai Kit, Singapore

 

Eucalyptus

 

I too am 

oil-smothered.

As you 

spread 

my seeds,

I dissolve 

your sniffles.

 

Like you,

my evergreen

leaves

bow 

gently

in acquiescence 

to gravity.

 

As your

senses

burn,

I too have

survived 

the raging

blaze.

 

Go on.

Take my 

timber,

ignite my 

bark,

tinder-dry

for love.


Quokka

  

I am face to face

with the happiest animal in the world.

 

Look how he comes close,

so curious, so trusting.

 

The little furball hops over,

intrigued by this human stretched out prone.

 

He sniffs at my hair,

eager to nuzzle.

 

He has no fast food,

yet he munches leaves with such joy.

 

He has no smartphone,

but he knows the wisdom of the woods.

 

He has no words,

so he will not judge before he loves.

 

He is still wild. 

I know we should never touch.

 

But how can I resist

when he gives my cheek a Quokka kiss.

 

Ow Yeong Wai Kit has edited poetry anthologies such as From Walden to Woodlands (2015) and Love at the Gallery (2017). His writings can be found in the Interfaith Observer, Straits Times, TODAY, QLRS, and elsewhere. Currently a teacher and writer, he holds an M.A. in English Literature from University College London.

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