Brother You Went

You went away with warm gourds of honey
And calabashes of frothing beer-
And knots of sweet nuts and fruits
And pockets bulging with freshly roasted coffee beans

Brother, you went
With the blessings of the elders
You went with all the goodwill of your people
Wishing you well
Where you sought adventure

Brother you are back
With the sickening bottle
Of bad liquor-
That evil smelling poison

Brother, you are dangerous
You’re back with a big dagger
What are you going to use it for, eh?
You know we are vegetarians
Are you going to hunt your own people?
Why the riffle?

Brother don’t be rude,
Bend your gaze before the elders
Don’t shout, don’t interrupt…
Don’t fight me brother, I am trying to help

Brother, do want the tribe
To curse you
You?

By Ngabire Emmanuel

© 2002