Dance Of A Housemaid's Life

I hit dance floor with crack of dawn

My chores choreographed my day begins

Strictly regimented each move planned

Slight deviation invites chagrin

I cannot adopt moods of Kathakali

Nor emotions of Kathak form

My foot movement must match with orchestration

Sharp, not fluid like Bharatnatyam

Break style does not exist in my word web

Nor pause button nor lyrical step

My robotic moves are much in demand

Machine must never disobey command!!

I can not display fury of 'Tandav'

Nor wild or extreme physical expression

Breaking away from specific sequence

All deemed sure signs of rebellion

I must tap feet with timely beats

Follow the director's directions

Strictly adhere to tunes of masters

There is no room for free expression

With no godmother, away from my troupe

I am left with no choice but to perform

For my kids back home my family alone

The dance of my life goes on and on