All The Air A Solemn Stillness Holds. Poem by Ravi Panamanna

From realities who can escape
When the gales are blowing aghast?
Those are frenzied moments
And, a checkmate is imminent.

For me, it is drawing twilight,
The night is throwing in a casting glance.
Is it not an evincing wink?
Interlacing twitch of life at the brink?

The sound of music is now but a wisp,
Upon my ears, it is no more than a buzz.
The concert is over, curtains are drawn,
I am packing off, await my driver.

As I lend my ears listening to his lopes,
In deeper tones I reflect:
‘Other than this impelling drive of death
What remains more natural on this earth? '

My garage is a display of branded cars,
But now, a wheelchair is all my Cadillac.
My home decors, royal and opulent,
But of no use as the curtains are drawn.

Costly shoes and priceless gifts,
A wardrobe is full of designer costumes-
Everything lay waiting for the owner,
Alas! A gown is enough for my requirement.

Bank balances are nine and more digits,
Wealth, it has grown at winking speeds.
But of what use in these closing moments?
My castle-like mansion too, drops me out.

I have diner's cards across the world
High star hotels I had stepped in plenty.
But a pinch of salt and two pills at night,
Sufficient is my dinner, followed by a sleeping tab.

I kept traveling to star hotels countless,
Buffet and variety, I did always relish.
Now, I keep moving from lab to lab,
Dear friends, this is all my present dab.

Once seven hairstylists did my hair daily,
But today, I am hairless and, nearly bald.
I was flying in different planes once,
Now, I lean against two nurses to reach the porch.

I now realize, no amenities help me,
No comforting in any way!
But the faces of some loved ones,
Their prayers can keep my flames alive.

Whatever you possess, dispossession is sure.
In the end, you are left to soliloquies.
Be kind and benevolent, caring and selfless,
Avoid valuing people for their wealth and power.

Show your love in words and deeds, be gentle and pure,
Treasure the ones who are there for you.
Hurt not anyone, be good, and do well,
This is your asset here and ever here afterward.
..............................................................................
18th February 2022
Ravi Panamanna