I love you my son

I love you like Harmattan pawpaw
Freshly cut and served with cola nuts
And a calabash of fresh palm wine-
Impurities and all.

I love you sonny boy
Like Africa loves sunshine
And badly battered drums.
You bring me happiness
Like the prince’s wink to
The farmer’s daughter.

I love you very much
My only sonny boy
Like the moment when
Your mother shyly nodded
Approvingly to my poorly
Chosen, affectionate words.

I love you son.
I love you because you are
Not because you do
or think
Or say.

Happy fifth birthday
And remember I’ll love you all the way.