This week’s poem, inspired by the impression of familiarity, but also of contrast I received when I was recently in Sri Lanka. After 6 years in Bangladesh, I see other countries through that particular lens of experience.

Women of Sri Lanka

On the Kandy streets, smiling, shopping, hurrying,

I recognize in you my Bengal sisters;

you have thrown off sari, salwar kameez, dupatta,

instead a light blouse, a loose skirt

bright over brown ankles,

slender feet in cheap sandals.

I recognize my Bengali sisters’ figure, face and form,

but stare to see you seated in the driver’s seat,

your confident stride,

long black hair loose or in sensible styles.

Seeing a sister, who overnight

has chosen a more practical life.

Kandy, Sri Lanka 2016