Guest

[AYOUB]

This one is dedicated to all putting up with the very hard to please and over-staying 'guests' - usually from Holland - and their 'habits'.

 

 

The guest on the first day,

Give him rice and coconut heart

Served in the shell,

To welcome the guest.

 

The guest on the second day,

Give milk and butter

As affection grows

Show more to the guest.

 

The guest on the third day,

There is nothing in the house

But three kibaba,

Cook them and eat them with the guest.

 

The guest on the fourth day,

Give him a *** to use,

On his return, take leave of him,

And let him go home.

 

The guest on on the fifth day

Pricks like a needle.

The house full of whispering.

All against the guest.

 

The house on the sixth day -

Go into the corners

To hide when you eat,

From that guest.

 

The guest on the seventh day

Is no guest but a pest.

If the thatch catches fire

Blame it on the guest.

 

The guest on the eighth day -

"Come in, let us pat"

When he goes out side -

Goodbye, go along, guest."

 

The guest on the ninth day -

"Go, man go,

Do not come back,

Do not return, guest".

 

The guest on the tenth day -

With blows and kicks,

Get rid of no one

So long as you are rid of the guest.

 

 

Mtoro bin Mwinyi Bakari ( The Customs of the Swahili People)

[AYOUB]

Ms Dawoco the 'Holland' bit was meant for a particular 'rude boy'. As if I'd say something like that about someone of your class and stature. Apologies nevertheless and i'm pleased you liked the poem