The Trade-Off
I sat still with moist eyes, looking around me with furtive glances
Watching my friends discuss their results with their parents
I had topped my class
But did not have my progress report to show
Victim of a system that blackmailed you
Reminding that money ran the show
My fees unpaid, my progress report put on hold
I sat there helpless, waiting for Mom to help out, once again
Looking around with pride and joy
I knew, another piece of her jewellery was pawned; One more trade-off
She hugged me amidst loud claps from my class
I sat still with moist eyes...
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Watching my friends discuss their results with their parents
I had topped my class
But did not have my progress report to show
Victim of a system that blackmailed you
Reminding that money ran the show
My fees unpaid, my progress report put on hold
I sat there helpless, waiting for Mom to help out, once again
Suddenly, She came in beaming
Holding my Report card with her, waving at me teary-eyedLooking around with pride and joy
I knew, another piece of her jewellery was pawned; One more trade-off
She hugged me amidst loud claps from my class
I sat still with moist eyes...
Beautifully written ...There is substitute of everything but Parents & their love is unconditional and irreplaceable ....
ReplyDeleteSo much poignant one evoking mixed feelings of joy and sorrow! Beautiful!
ReplyDeleteDebasish Biswas
Too good. I was holding my tears while reading this.
ReplyDeleteSashwata, too good. You have poured your heart in the poem. It's so poised and soothing. Bang on dear!
ReplyDeleteA very sensitive and heart touching poem with beautiful imagery from poet's own memory of childhood that he has treasured.
ReplyDelete