Poetry 2023 Longlist, Ndaba Sibanda

Putting The Coach To The Test



Transitioning to a new country. On the plane, on the move

Eagerness and anxiety were turning into an upset tummy

Homesickness was already taking a toll on her psyche

She had always preached coolness in the midst of spite

But her buzzing belly and dizzying head were an unrest

Creating frowns, mumblings from a long lavatory line



For she was trotting in and cooing, cooing & camping

As if fidgeting and fussing around in the small room

Was her pastime, her profession, her meditation

Maybe food served on the plane was playing up

Goodness Success Coach Cilikicane

Would your trip be successful?