Shamik Banerjee

Cricket with Father

His legs, placed by the table's centrepiece,
Revive a retro posture—crisscrossed feet —
A style so august that it can increase
The stature of his no-frills wooden seat.
Although it seems those eyes are on the score,
In truth, they try to gauge my mother's mood —
If fine, he might receive a snack or more
With tea—a fusion that's immensely good.
This four-roomed place fills with his vibrant voice —
"A brilliant sixer," "howzat," "what a catch" —
As if a stadium's eternal noise.
He teaches me the basics of a match,
Explaining every aspect, big or small.
I nod my head, although I know it all.

Shamik Banerjee is a poet from Assam, India, where he resides with his parents. Some of his recent publications include Ink Sweat and Tears, Lucky Jefferson, Modern Reformation, The Society of Classical Poets, and Third Wednesday, among others. He secured second position in the Southern Shakespeare Company Sonnet Contest, 2024.