By K B Ryan Joshua Mahindapala
Under the tree, there is a shade
Away from the stomping parade
Down the street and through the city
With each step, draws closer the enemy
Under the tree, there is a shade
A quiet solace free from hate
We do as we please, none will see
Instead of being judged by cruel decrees
Under the tree, there is a shade
We do not expect to live like this forever
We can only endeavour
For a dignified existence before they annihilate
Under the tree, there is a shade
We can only sit and wait
We have no power, our fate hangs on balance
Why do they have so much malice?
Under the tree, there is a shade
We hold each other’s hands, we serenade
Shielding the young
From the volley of broken souls
Under the tree, there is a shade
If an enfilade points directly at the trees
What will happen?
Surely — we will be dead on our bellies
Under the tree, there is a shade
But the time has come
As they inch closer,
Will we survive?
K B Ryan Joshua Mahindapala is a Singaporean author. He frequently speaks and writes on topics related to heritage, culture and identity.
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