parting ways

Maruti Naik
Jan 13, 2024

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Goa-Zuari

in the end
we are just
smoldering ashes
wrapped in the smell
of incense and flowers
people bring

a few bones
whole and stubborn
see of the flames
and smoke

the stars watch
silent
a wind picks up
drying
the tears that escape

we leave
careful
to shut the creaking gate
as softly as we can
the dead
do not like to be disturbed
their peace hard earned

we part ways
at the bridge
which sheltered us
as we fished
and watched over us
as we swam

we part ways
in familiar waters

--

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Maruti Naik
Maruti Naik

Written by Maruti Naik

I write to remember. I write to remain honest. I write to leave a bread crumb trail for my daughter. I write to relax. Trying to impress my better half, I write