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Showing posts from May, 2026

Mama Uda by Fabian Stennett

 Ballad of Mama Uda’s Kitchen Fire Written by Fabian Stennett Before the hills kissed morning light, And dew still clung to cane, Mama Uda woke the yard alive Before the cock crowed again. Her footsteps hummed on earthen floor, Soft as a chapel song, While coal-fire glowed beneath the pot Where hungry hearts belong. The coffee beat in the mata bowl, Rich scent fill the air, Mama Uda stir it strong and dark With loving hands and care. She grated cassava on the grater board, Steel teeth scrape so sweet, Back and forth with steady hands, Keeping old-time rhythm beat. Andrae run come through the yard, Barefoot in the dew, While Zandria laugh beside the gate, Calling, “Mama, how yuh do?” Little Aaliyah hold the spoon, Trying hard to stir, Monty wait beside the fire For the first roast breadfruit share. Windel split the coconut shell, Novelette season the pot, While rundown bubble thick and rich With all the love she got. Kingsley and Uncle Manzie Sit beneath the tree, Telling stories of...