Fareed Agyakwah - Issue 37

Fareed Agyakwah, also known as the author of A Child’s Poetry for Peace is an award-winning Ghanaian poet, author, children’s writer and literary eagle celebrated for his contributions to contemporary African literature- a literary voice deep-rooted in the mores, truths, and transformative rhythms of Africa. His work often weaves together the spiritual and the everyday life, breathing fresh meaning into ancient wisdom through lyrical clarity and cultural nuance. His work has appeared in several anthologies including I, The Writer and Best New African Poets 2019. His writing regularly centers on themes of peace, love, universal humanity, cultural identity, and social change. He is at odds over anything that sabotages the resolve of truth. The two poems here are themed on love. He is a recipient of several awards including the Temirqazyq Best Poet/ Writer of the World 2019 and Miembro de Honor 2020. He is soon going to release another book for children Harmattan Bells and Bamboo Joy: A Christmas Memory.

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Faithful

I hate chameleons.

I am damn focused,

Knowing exactly where the lines fall.

You’re awfully good.

Flowers abound.

I intend to pluck yet

The one that truly belongs!

The Last Kiss

Leaving, you called me

Away from the table of men.

I was more than willing

To accede to your demands.

But you only held my cheeks

And wet my lips.

I still wear

The perfume you wore.

I still taste the mint on your tongue.

And it’s sad to think

This unforgettable signature

Shall be washed away with wine.