Passage

This haibun appeared in the October issue of Cattails on page 72:

Passage

almost evening

jasmine and ashes 

make everything clear

             

We sit In a small shop in a narrow lane eating delicious saffron and pistachio lassi served in throw-away clay pots with wooden spoons. 

Every ten minutes solemn chanting is heard. First the wood-bearers hurry past. Then a procession. On the shoulders of four men is a mat attached to bamboo poles. 

The precious bundle is gilded with tinsel and marigolds. Behind comes a group of mourners, more logs and a cow that just happens to be ambling nearby.

They pass. So close you could touch them. Then they've gone.

that second

before emptiness

a light breeze

We dispose of our remains in the recycling pit. Time to look for transport home. 

charcoal sky

ending the journey 

before last light