Unemployment
I have been roaming the streets
For years I could not remember
For decades, immemorial
Each time, in and out
This time & every other time
When I see a factory
They the face of come again
The ugly face of disappointment
The non-smiling face of disappointment
Telling me to move on
Try the next factory the caring gateman
May say
But, comfort is always on my side
Saying tomorrow may be good
Determination, says struggle must continue
I am very optimistic
Goodies must surely arrive
Time being the deciding factor
But definitely,
As dawn overcomes dusk
My suffering must one day end
Nearly all the secretaries
Know my handwriting
An acquaintance of "I beg to……."
Apply for this or that
They are tired of destroying my letters
Or application as they call it
If I have not achieved my aim
I have achieved something
Popularity I may call it
I’m as popular as bathroom slippers
The Lagos streets could recognize my footsteps
I know all their names
We are partners in progress to doom
My shoes are begging for forgiveness
They are tired of me
My shirts are laughing
My trousers are weary
All these are special awards
For their long service
They are all single
Maybe the searching
Will end one day
But the hope is blind
Anyway.
By Remi Adegoke mid 1980s
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