In The Shadow Of The Baobab

In the shadow of the baobab

when the afternoon sun is a golden glow

and the heat of the day is being dissolved

by a soft breeze that started to blow

the herd is returning, the night is approaching

and soon, a sickle moon will be hanging low

When the ancient dust of Africa

has settled at the end of day

and the wisdom of the elders has quietly been spoken

from beneath the baobab and conveyed

fires were started and within,

darkness and fears were allayed

Rise up my boys to face the night

rise up to shed your fears

sleep with one eye open and one ear to the ground

and keep near you your beloved spears

for tonight after the eunoto

you'll be no more il morran, but men 'till your grey years.

Andre Hanekom 2007