It was early evening in late September,
when I finally embarked on the last train.
The journey home through hills I did remember,
as a wave of nostalgia hit me with joy and pain.
My mind flew to those vistas of solitary beauty
Where men were few and greenery was more.
I intimately knew each tree I climbed for booty,
each flower and its fragrance that made me soar.
What a difference it made when the city lured me
with its tall buildings and glittering sights at night!
The stifling space, the concrete fields made me see
what I left behind running after the mirage of light.
I paid my price for leaving my valley home.
Ready-made food, dust and smoke, cut throat
competition, were no match for me to roam,
an unknown citizen with no friends, I took note.
Before the shackles of attraction and addiction
to city life snapped on my body and soul thank God,
I settled my dues, cleared my desk, shook off affliction,
went home to my people who my decision did applaud.
Jayalakshmi V. 