Raohe Night Market
 

Raohe St.  Night Market, Taipei.
 
my tongue is a pointing finger
ni hao and xièxie the only words
twin talismans against discourtesy
goodbye, old language, I
an introvert in this land of red lanterns
will not pine for you
 
humidity presses down with both palms
people stand and drip by Mazu’s temple
she must be out on business tonight
pity – a sea goddess is what’s needed
to quell the pulsing core of June
 
try the shishamo – willow leaf fish
deep fried with plentiful roe
or the savoury snap of a pork pepper bun
here is a place that reminds me of what I am
as I take my designated seat at nature’s table

Kevin McGowan

If you have any thoughts on this poem,  Kevin McGowan would be pleased to hear them.