Suva Market
p. 77 · Read in the full issue
By Sam Simpson
At the centre of the city, Suva boasts a Market Its belly bursting obese.
A jostling throng, A merry motley of people.
Pacific peasants, noble and humble, Colourful as cocktail.
Bare feet, seared with clay Fresh from the teitei.
I hear someone say, Ya vica, sa vinaka.
Another, turbaned and toga Boasts an eastern flavour to savour Squatting like a yogi eating air.
Saris with a hue of blue and gold Bodies blessed with bangles and with beads, Odour of mystery and spices.
Fruit, root crops, vegetables Fresh from tree, soil, garden Mellow, blush and burden With sap, syrup and starch Ready for the housewife and kitchen.
Melody in tranquillity Witness to Fiji's rich diversity.
It is here that east and west Meet and fete with understanding.
Sam Simpson