Poems

Settling the Somali Language

Through the fixing of its spelling
my language is delivered:
my difficulties done with,
I'm freed from every hindrance.
Settling the orthography’s
our economy's foundation;
it defends against all defects
in the oneness of our nation -
it underwrites and it defines.
 
I must be devoted to Somali
develop through Somali
create within Somali
I must be rid of poverty
and give myself for my own mother tongue.
 
Only a single night divides
old yesterday's despair
from today's delighted laughter -
you people gathered here
how close you’ve grown together:
you face in one direction.
Do you hear deliverance call?
Have you divined its meaning?
Does it taste good in the mouth?
 
I must be devoted to Somali
develop through Somali
create within Somali
I must be rid of poverty
and give myself for my own mother tongue.
 
You who are still unaware, look!
You who are deliberately deaf: listen!
if the pot isn't placed on the fire
the dish cannot be cooked
so how will it ever satisfy? 
Consider this in light of our goal:
where does deep hurt lie
but in our backbone -
time to treat that injury!
 
I must be devoted to Somali
develop through Somali
create within Somali
I must be rid of poverty
and give myself for my own mother tongue.