But a Father (an ode to Fatherhood)
“Fatherhood” (1971): Pablo Picasso, oil on canvas (source: pablopicasso.org)
I am, but a father
Or as a father would be.
Rapt with emotion
Hidden behind the sanity
Harbour some doubt
Behind all the vanity
Know no fear
But do fret a bit
Know not all
Yet play to be “it”
But one of these days
I’ll become what you see-
I am, but a father
Or as a father would be.
I forget each day
About the daughters and sons
I’m also best known
For silly jokes and puns
I’m focused on problems
Just not ones I’d solve
My closet is messed up
Boy… can’t seem to evolve!
But one day… for sure-
I’ll live “perfectly”!
I am, but a father
Or as a father would be.
I become the man
When valour’s what it needs
And the kindest woman
When it’s time for good deeds
Have no way with words
Or expressing what I’m close to
I feel just as, however
And care… yes, I do!
But one day, not long now
I’d express all that’s key-
I am, but a father
Or as a father would be.
Life may not be forever
But my heart is bigger than time
In it live, my daughters and sons
And an eternal love of mine
I carry that love in all I seek
Notwit’ my amnesiac mind
That love will live beyond the reach
Any with words may find
And one day, when the time’s right
All my dreams’ll run free!
I am, but a father
Or as a father would be.
(Written and composed by Rishabh Singh on Fathers Day, Sunday 4th September 2022).