At the site
*****

where you disappeared
into the elements
mingling with ancestors

the ground was still hot
as if the cool April night
of the Thar hadn't intervened

potfuls of water
turned into steam
rising at us in reproach
as we reached
for the ash-flowers

how the soles of my feet
singed for days after

I took it as just reprimand
for my absence
at the hour of your going

*************** Copyright Karni Pal Bhati