Tactile Flow

By Vusi Moloi © 2011

Tactile flow must never atrophy
Like molasses, before they solidify
Cautious juices flow unimpeded
After gaining their sacred trust
Lubricant flows from the depths
A sacred oil to salute the gods
To reward a directed pilgrim
Whose life hitherto is interim

Tactile flow oozing even higher
Like black molasses by the fire
To overflow before nightfall
To fall into trance after squeezing
A glorious appearing like sapphire
Black molasses before they retire
To peel away like yellow plantain
The sweet innermost we must retain

Contextual Commentary

The medicine plant of Matamong is most trusted for its healing powers. The sacred juices of the plant are embedded and locked inside to preserve a flawless purity. A barbed membrane guards the innermost to prevent tampering by those not sanctioned by the ancestors. When the medicine woman approaches the sacred grounds, she makes incantations to the ancestors to seek a rite of passage. When the ancestors disapprove, she must gracefully adjourn until another day. Happily for her, it is fortuitous that the planets are in alignment and she is permitted to come within reach of the sacred grounds.

The galactic core of the heavens has accepted her because her people are descendants of Mphatlalatsane of the stellar universe. She burns a special incense Impepho to announce her presence to the ancestors. Thereafter, she breaks into a warrior chant of those who have gone before her, brandishing a shining spear that has been fortified with strong medicines. The gathering of the spirits is like an insignia authorizing the pilgrim to explore and relish the succulent plant of the African soil. The revered tradition must continue so that the future generations can walk on footsteps of those who have gone before them.
The Indomitable Mongoose, by Vusi Moloi © 2008, Canada.