We are all Fishermen with Broken Nets | John Chinaka Onyeche

If foresight had whispered catch fleeing from the net,
Last night repairs, we would had mended every tear.
Watermen arrived ventured into the deep,
Fishes heard our calls in formation they had dive.

In unity they queued asking for a grand score,
But a net cracked and unprepared is no extra.
For a grand catch requires a net well-tended,
Yet we cast with flaws our hopes unblending.

You the river embraced us on the boat’s nod,
Guiding us through night’s slumber showing us how,
To seek what is elusive yet find what is true,
Your presence in our hearts is a dance of sorts.

Are you still beside us or have you sailed away?
Joining tales of watermen’s ships a different haven,
Where catches are bounteous nets remain whole,
Where fish are not lost where destinies unfurl.

We tried our best your life within our grasp,
But hardness prevailed your gasp for life clutched,
Like fish your breath in water a fleeting act,
As you left the world a space in between.

Are we like air when life’s journey’s thru?
Perhaps like whispers our essence is rolled,
Eternal unseen a presence in every flurry,
A memory’s echo – a heart’s cherished faith.

About the Poet

John Chinaka Onyeche is a multi-talented individual, wearing the hats of an author, poet, and educator specializing in History and African History. He boasts an impressive literary repertoire that includes works such as Echoes Across The Atlantic, A Night Tale At The Threshold Of Howl, We Returned To Kiss The Cross, The Broken Fort, A Good Day For Tomorrow’s Coming, Stateless, 25 Atonements, and The Gathering Of Reeds, scheduled for publication in March 2024 by Ethel Zine Press. Additionally, he has crafted a chapbook titled “Chapters Of Broken Tales.” John’s literary prowess has earned him recognition as a Best of Net Nominee.
Beyond his literary pursuits, John is a devoted husband and a loving father to two charming children, Sobeife and Chisimdiri. He hails from Nigeria and primarily creates his works in the vibrant city of Port Harcourt, Rivers State. While crafting his poetic and literary pieces, he draws inspiration from his academic background as a graduate of History and Diplomatic Studies from Ignatius Ajuru University of Education in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.