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Poetry: Falls, the tree

By Justin Salani

We  were all alert when the tree fell,
On top of the roof, the house WHACK
In our hearts sadness, WHOP
Waves of shock, hard on us  WHAM
In our spirits the news WHANG.
 
The tree shed its fruits for our stomachs
Its evergreen leaves shed us shade.
Not for us only did it shed
Distant blood relatives ate from its all-season shed
The community dined and wined under its mansion-beauty shade
The clergy know its shade shelter, for the vulnerable shed
Now its leaves have withered and has shed
Who will, for us all provide shade?
 
We were all alert when the tree fell
It has stopped shedding for us, reality strikes
For one last time can we see its fruits?
No luck, on top of the roof it fell,
Smashed even our hearts, and distant huts
Its true she has gone for good.
We will meet in the eschatological new shoots.
 
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Nyaladzi Lester Kole

My full name is Nyaladzi Lester Kole, and I come from Plumtree, Zimbabwe. My educational journey began in primary school, where I attended three different institutions: Mlomwe Primary School for my early grades (1 to 3), Nopemano Primary School for my middle years (4 to 6), and culminating at Thekwane Primary School for my final primary year (Grade 7). For secondary education, I continued my studies at Thekwane High School, navigating Forms 1 to 6, where I developed a deeper appreciation for learning and personal growth. Following my secondary education, I pursued higher education at the National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), where I earned a degree in Media in Publishing Studies and proudly graduated in 2021. Professionally, I've had the privilege of working with a variety of organizations, gaining diverse experiences that have enriched my career. I began my journey at College Press, where I honed my skills as a copy editor. I then took on the role of personal assistant at Nomina Music, developing organizational and communication skills. My passion for storytelling found a home at CURE Children's Hospital of Zimbabwe, where I engaged with children through creative narratives. As a project manager at Vision to Africa, I coordinated efforts to bring impactful projects to fruition before transitioning to my current role at Scrivener as a publisher and writer, where I combine my love for literature and publishing. Beyond my professional life, I consider myself a multifaceted creative. I have explored various artistic avenues, including graphic design, photography, and music production. In the realm of music, I produce under the moniker Stainless Kole, where I express my musical creativity and collaborate with others to create unique sounds.

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