The Iyiaja shrine
By Abraham Nwankwo
A patch of thick rain forest,
Intact in its natural state,
Deep, and dense, and damp.
Surrounded in contrast, by farmed lands,
At different stages of defilement.
Evergreen, hill-high shrinal canopy,
Perennially, excitingly adorned by colours,
Contributed by various arrogant plants,
At different stages of flowering,
And well-mixed by decorators unseen.
Among the fauna completing the ecosystem:
Beautiful butterflies that continually swarm,
In display of rhythmic aerial parade.
Reflecting the enviable harmony that exists,
In this sample of untampered vegetation.
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Inside are ancient pots of clay,
Bowls and saucers as well;
Used to present kola to the gods;
Cowries and other historic treasures abound,
Pointing to many generations long past.
