Theyyam

http://indiantravelblogs.blogspot.com/2016/02/theyyam.html

“So then, know this” —

Vermilion smeared, and darkened kohl
His eyes bloodshot to match
His dusky feet, yet mortally plain
The sword swings pointing at me

A terror within, stares out a-wild
Each to the other entwined
Cross-legged child, transfixed in time
Imprints a memorable slice

The tip of the sword, with nary a touch
Pierce deeply into the psyche
Awakens within, a primordial self
The fear that cuts through the mist

The soul exposed, a moment so brief
Connected from tip through hilt
The apparition lost, in rapturous trance
Brands my soul on life

Searing heat, within and without
The memory is burnt upon
The veil of life, that sheaths the soul
The memory a tattoo in time

Unni Nambiar (December 29th 2018)