THE HERD

Joseph Gatuiria

He stands on one long leg,

One scarred long leg – the other wound round it.

His thimbled muthigi is stuck in the armpit

And pegged slantwise to keep balance.

His lips twitch, his eyes stare,

His lips twitch, curled to whistle

That exclusive  herdsman’s quiet tune

(The tune which induces lively gazing);

it is his only occupation for years on end.

He stands lanky-legged and bare;

Positioned strategically in front of his herd

He stand –

His thimbled muthigi pegged slantwise to keep balance.