By Ama Poetry
When those entrusted with protecting the environment instead protect those who destroy it, the consequences extend far beyond the present generation. In “Chief,” Ama Poetry confronts a powerful leader whose alleged favouritism allows environmental destruction to continue. Through sharp wordplay and restrained political criticism, the poem explores corruption, environmental injustice and the responsibility of those in power.
Though they cut our trees out of season,
By your right, you release them from prison.
So you can keep reasoning with your financially indisciplined sons,
Even when the sun keeps burning the granaries of our sons,
And the rains keep sweeping their homes.
I wish,
I wish I could write right
About this rite you perform during the night.
I would write it,
Chief.
