Farming Hymns (Kpari Yiila)
Photo Credit: Franz Kröger Weeding the fields couldn't be more delightful! Though backs are breaking in the noonday heat, Palms blistering from gripping rigid hoe sticks, Sweat trickling down the groins of labouring kinsmen, And all their muscles are taut with effort, The smell of dark loamy earth freshly upturned Releases a singing trapped in the lungs of men. Have you read: Village Boy Impressions - The Matrimonial Dance The thrill of music banishes all weariness And even the weakest muscle would gain Momentum to break the moist earth with iron Whilst hearts throb with the harmonious choruses; Hymns that at once inspire, admonish, and entertain. Chanting the village news as well as the secrets of men, One is forced to pay as much heed as to work harder. Every drop of gin sent coursing into half-empty bellies Lends leverage to even unwilling tongues And the sweetness of...