KENGARAGS

Five hundred years after Columbus’ landing on the “New” continent by Pina Piccolo Swallowed by vine, the labyrinth, Deep in the forest Swallowed by vine, Surrounded by a river Surrounded by indios - On market days, the women Cross the Usumacinta on frail boats Trading vibrant plumage colors For tin coins, Camouflage cloth, Deep in the forest, Swallowed by vine Chameleons against foliage and rock. Tonight on the temple steps The moon will draw A serpent Offering the red fruit Of knowledge To those who live With the taste of fear. Tonight the monkeys will scream From top branches and scorpions Will hide under rocks. Tonight Mauro, the Christian Lacandon, guardian of the Mayan temple Will erect a small shrine To a nameless god And cry for drunken forgiveness To a wife he’s betrayed. Then, machete in hand Brandishing revenge He will howl with the forest A curse, Lingering echo Of a festering woun