If only my words could pierce your veil
And seep into your soul
With meandering freshness and mystique
Woven delicately in diaphanous layers

Gently, silently, and yet
With the hesitation of first flush**
Blossoming tentatively on a tea bush
With the koel signalling the advent of spring

For the romance of first love
Moves with an uncertain gait
Fraught with halting nervousness
As it glides through whispering alleyways

The unpredictability is killing, yet so very absorbing
Occupying each thought, every breath
Giving sustenance and meaning to my very existence
Yet causing sweet murder

For I am not the same anymore
Cause you have changed me so
My earlier life lies in absolute tatters
As I turn to you for alms of love

** First Flush refers to the youngest and the freshest tea leaves, which are plucked first at the start of the season in spring. Darjeeling First Flush is one of the costliest varieties of tea available in the market.

Subir Chakraborty / 17th June 2019