Desolation.

Heat waves shimmer around me like a sandstorm

which don't seem to clear; and I can't see through the haze;

these are your blessings.

Look at my family

Look at their empty eyes and stomachs

Look all around you, Mother

Where were you, when my world came crashing down around me?

You have betrayed me, Mother...

Life changes colours like the changing seasons;

green to gold

then to yellow

and now nothing at all;

You once gave me life

don't take it away now...

What wrong have I done, Mother?

Our lives are the same

both barren and parched

deprived of water and food

blazing in the intense heat

without any shelter.

If this is how you bless me; then so be it.

Reeling under unpaid debts and ruthless landowners,

my glance extends both ways:

once at the noose lying on the floor;

and once at my wife's vacant eyes

and then at the empty well in the courtyard.

My fields are dry

the animals are starving

and my children clamour for food.

Look at their emaciated bodies, Mother!

I worshipped you like a god

don't curse me now...

You once gave me life

don't take it away now...