Palm-wine for in-laws
By Abraham Nwankwo
Whatever the circumstance may be,
A visit to in-laws always needs,
A calabash of palm wine to give.
Otherwise, of diplomatic blunder, it smacks;
Even disrespect and hostility, signifies.
A disregard for the matrimonial-based bond,
That, two clans has intimately joined;
Better to share with them and soften the ground,
Before discussions that could often be hard.
A communion that pre-empts mistrust,
And the way paves for mutual accord,
After all have, of the wine drunk;
Its whiteness that purity metaphors,
Its lively crowning foam that excess love signifies.
The guests their mission now narrate,
With command and dignity as of ambassadors.
The hosts in rapt attention lend their ears;
For the palm wine has, the right chemistry, conjured.
