Voices

I hear voices:
Mother says something and laughs.
There’s a lump in my father’s throat as he talks.
Beard is beginning to sprout on my face.
A bell rings. School’s over.  
I have kissed her again.
The train is leaving for Nakodar.
This is the voice of Baba Bhag Singh visiting our house.
The prison gate is opening.
My baby son chokes as he sucks at his mother’s breast.
Travellers throw flowers and coconuts in the sea.
One sound only is missing, 
The one I am longing to hear.

VOICES