On a rainy summer night

The corroding heat was burning
The heart to give more warmth.
But, the wind never blew to
Ignite the few fenders into fire.

The eyes could never see in the glare,
They could only stoop and stare,
But, all they could see were miraged
Oasis, in a developed desert, decorated
Not with trees but, with cement jeweleries.

The bricks only built a fireplace
On the planet, not a safe haven from
The heat, as planned. It seemed better to
Sleep under a maple tree or eat a
Tasty mango than drink evergreen tea.

Water was found somewhere beyond the sea,
But, could not drown the thirst as
It was inhabited by disease. Not by
Chance could anyone greet another.
Some were tired and some were weary
Of what others might carry.

The skies broke up, the clouds patched up
And the rain came pouring in. Into the sea,
Into the only place to be found with
Locks and keys, bolted shut by unseen
Thunderstorms and lightnings and breeze.

The summer was drenched, the winds
Were cleansed and the only window left
closed was opened narrowly. The mirages
Were washed away, the oasis flowed a river.
And the jeweled ornaments lost their
Luster. And the sun calmed down to
Let more people live.

--Mohan