THE BELLWETHER

THE BELLWETHER

"Here comes the bride", was the song and anthem of the day

They had chosen the venue, a destination wedding and also the party music to play!

Father was at a crossroads, the dilemma and turmoil was a dizzying sway

From his coffers he had to bleed dry, life savings he'd have to pay!

Keeping up appearances in society and the pressure it wielded

Was inevitable, evil and extremely cold blooded

Mixed emotions in her heart twisted and roiled

How could she glow with radiance, they'd made sure the bounce in her step was foiled…

Come big day she was dressed in a sari scarlet flame fiery

Ornate necklace, the only heirloom legacy, made her quite teary…

Tulips, orchids, lilies pricey, a live band and orchestra

Made her cringe at the extravaganza!

The moment of truth dashed her dreams in an icy downpour

When the father of the groom showed his added greedy odor

She vaguely heard words Benz, penthouse, rubies, emeralds, sapphire

The helpless and pleading look on her parents' face surpassed all her patience and demeanor!

Rising like determined Blue Heron,

Spanning her wings of wrath like ferocious dragon,

She tore down the drapery and veils of sheer laces, velvet and satin

Stomping her foot down, with eyes blazing, looked pointedly at the hobgoblin

Grabbing the mike from a yodelling singer,

she questioned in a holler,

"When will the bottomless pit of your avarice satiate, you vulture?"

There was a hushed silence when she, with barely controlled temper,

Announced in full force, a voice loud and clear,

"This wedding is canceled, you may all leave,

Thank you for guzzling free champagne, appetizers and all the beer!"

Snapping her fingers to close the buffet counter

She walked out with her parents in tow, her head held high like a proud bellwether!

Flabbergasted and sputtering, she left behind a motley of harlequins

Last heard, they're in prison for dowry harassment in shackles and chains!

Pic Courtesy:ArtoonsInn Poetry Parlour

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