April Without Flamboyance

This year April didn't come in 

With a flourish, holding her 

Multi-colored skirt 

Waving in the breeze.  

She tiptoed in like a thief, 

Bringing with her a trail of grief

This year April showers

Will not bring much-needed relief 

Staying indoors, deprived of fresh breeze

Flowers will drop off and die

No appreciative glances from passersby 

No flowers to offer in-home altars

This year April will have 

Fruit laden trees, mangoes, lychees 

Jamuns, jamrul, free for parakeets

Feasting on these, without any fear

Of being chased away by 'malis'

Orchards looking like colorful canvasses 

This year April will not perform

Her dance to the accompaniment

Of drums, cymbals, and lightning 

The new year will not be ushered in

People will not be exchanging sweets

A big departure from the norm

But let us not forget these are trying times

April is toeing the line, staying behind

In the green room, while the drama

Of life continues on the world stage

As death statistics spiral each day

We can pray, 'without further ado"

April rolls up the infected curtain

Before bidding adieu!