In Sri Lanka, smooth sealed roads are called
‘Carpet Roads’
Because with the monetary aid of foreign
governments
The rough and ready dirt tracks are being replaced
and overlaid.
Here we are, the cynosure of all eyes.
A teardrop, a pearl, a plum being
lasciviously eyed
Because of our strategic location
And the value of what we naturally have.
Jewels from the red earth
Cinnamon peeled from the trees
Once that spice was more valuable
Per gram than gold
Scenic landscapes full of power
Hydroelectricity, Solar electricity
We are 7 degrees North of the Equator
And with a deep Harbour
All roads lead through us
In the old days, ships would pause
In the Harbour to refuel
And it is important that the pathways
Of plunderers be smooth:
Easy to traverse
Soft to tread
Bio
Devika Brendon is a writer of poetry and short stories. She is currently working on 3 long form prose novellas. Devika is also a teacher, editor and reviewer of English literature. Her work has been widely published in both print and digital media.
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