Woman Poem by JOSEPH ABUTU

“Few more strokes to shore”
But you said that before
And yet no sign of freedom;
I am but a woman,
Why do I strive as a man?
I bear strength just enough-
To bring offspring to the world;
Now has my task extended
And my fragile heart offended.
So I shed these worthy tears-
Like a tree parting with its leaves.
Letting out my fears,
I ask and seek to know;
How long more till we are at shore?

“O woman of virtue!
Hear these sayings-
For they are true;
The end of your long years
Shall be spent as a youth,
Your labour and cares
Soon shall bring rewards young and cute,
Your fruits must ripe
And give you wine-
Like that of the vine,
Your essence shall never be forgotten
Neither shall your treasures rotten.
Told you shore was near,
Behold the proof is what you stare”.