Where I'm From

I am from acres of banana herbs spanning,
From the moist soil and sizzling breeze.
I am from the rangoli adorned abode
Gleaming from the light of lamps--
It tastes like salted lentil balls.
I am from the sacred tulsi,
The fragrant jasmine flowers--
Woven 'nto a wreath, tangled in my hair.

I am from the smeared ash and vermillion on your forehead,
From a passing line of left handers.
From Thylambal and Narayanan
And Chellum.
I'm from a family of Math geniuses and cookery enthusiasts;
From the tales of Ganesha and Krishna
And chocolate named 'bitter gourd'.
I'm from don't-cut-your-nails-on-Tuesday
(And that makes no sense!)
I'm from Palakkad,
Curd rice and idli.
From the blind praises streaming out of dad,
The you-aren't-even-wearing-your-spectacles from mom.

Up in the attic, in a wooden casket,
Where snaps from time lay--
I'm from the picturesque land they transport you to,
A place, God's own.

Author's Note

A poem I wrote for my Global Perspectives project. I had to follow a template, hence the differing syntax from my usual style. Your thoughts are most welcome.

Reviews

[Emrick]

Mhh.You are from a very beautiful place, a beautiful family and culture. .We also have un explainable superstitions.
Nice poem!.

[Aehr]

Lovely description! Love the picture you've painted for us here. And the last line gives a great effect. Good job :D

[KAin]

Welcome back to the café!
This is a great poem! it's very different from what I usually read, and I could taste the flavours of far-off places, painted nicely in your verse.
I like the style of it too!
Keep up the great work, and don't stop writing!

[AK]

Thank you so much for reviewing =)