The Room

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Ojokolo Peter Oluwadamilare is a Nigerian student and lover of Yoruba oral literature. He is an active student unionist and the Publishing Officer II of Association of Nigerian Authors, Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) chapter, Ile-Ife, Osun State. As he struggles to find meaning in Life, poetry continues to be his only Love.

A results-oriented scholar, Okokolo takes on any opportunity to hone his writing skills, with the aim of producing great works. He has a passion for poetry and intends to publish his first collection very soon. Ojokolo says that writing helps him reflect on his feelings, something he wants for his readers as well, and hopes that his writing helps people learn the art of paying attention to oneself.

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The Room

BY OJOKOLO PETER OLUWADAMILARE

© 2024

Alone in the room, too silent.

I hear the continuing harmonious

Rhyme of crickets’ noise,

Echoing deep,

Accentuated emptiness stuck to

My face like Baba’s glasses,

I couldn’t shake it off.

My position, now, reminds me of

A pond, a stone’s throw from Baba’s grave.

No flow, no movement, all I do now, is stare,

Watching how the door’s curtain breathes

In and out, doors closed, no

Openings in or out.

My belly sings from longing too long.

Not once have I had more

In common with a room.