I searched in many books
for the truth concerning you
and I learnt that
cities and sagas
were made by you.
And I learnt that
all banners were starched
in your life-blood.
And I learnt that you
are the lord and master
of the spring to come.
I waited, at dusk, many a time
to chat with you,
feigning acquaintance.
Translated from the Malayalam by A.J. Thomas