GENDER

Keys to an instrument of ears; eleven,

bronze. Keys. Drifting with a teardrop

into the river's tune. One so strung

in unison's resonated bamboo tube.

The natives of the valley picked it

as one piece 'neath a serpent's foot,

or a crowded naga's side. The second.

With gaiting giant birds forming their

carved Garuda wings. The third.

Painted and gilded centuries. Eleven

in those metal plates meandering with

extended slendro pipes. Dragons in

pendro notes occurred cross-legged

and contemplated gomelan soft beaters.

This mortal sound. A melody of rings

no sooner settled down and shared

inscriptions of the tale of gender.

Bongani Zungu/Singular Poet threads his poetry with the intent to reveal the subtle sophistry of knowledge in a simple, relatable way.

His poems touch on a number of themes guided by life experiences, awareness, and a sense of imagination.

Some of his more recent work has been featured on Odd Magazine and Catchwater Magazine.