“The Sounds of Koria” by Musema Edmond Vuni beautifully captures the essence of Romantic poetry, drawing inspiration from the studies of W. Wordsworth and Coleridge. Like the Romantic poets who celebrated nature and its profound influence on human emotions, Musema Edmond weaves a vivid tapestry of imagery that unfolds with the setting sun, the flowing river Koria, and the interactions of gods and goddesses in the mystical landscape of Kafua and Turukili plains. The poem resonates with the Romantic ideals of connecting with nature on a deep, emotional level, portraying the river Koria not merely as a physical entity but as a living and expressive force.
THE SOUNDS OF KORIA
As the Sun tiresomely goes to sleep,
The evening winds take a first sweep
Across Kafua and Turukili plains.
. The Eastern darkness rises with claims,
Covering the desolate land in whole.
Through her path, Koria keeps her flow;
Steadily, she moves in between; so slow.
Her rhythmic sounds hit on high
And the trees along become shy.
These sounds reawaken the gods
And in happiness they draw their swords.
The harvest god and goddess stay back
To make love on the shores without a shack.
The nigh becomes quiet suddenly,
And the mourning of the goddess so heavenly!
She rises with the pitches and lows so sweet
That in happiness the god makes the tweets!
No bird joins in shame for it is an omen.
Even in the morning, crossing is only for men
And when a female farmer sees the snake;
The two headed serpent of the river’s make,
She must to her husband’s side rush,
And make sweet love to him in a hush.
This will break the drought curse
And all yields shall fall all men thus.
Day breaks into light
And Koria’s waters dazzle in sight.
She does not stop her beautiful singing
And nature begins her routine ringing.
To the south she heads in peace,
Dividing the land into two pieces
With Kafua and Turukili owning one each.
About the Poet
Musema Edmond Vuni, a registered and qualified teacher of literature and English language, brings his expertise to craft a poetic narrative that showcases his understanding of literary traditions. As an MA student of Literature and Thomas Stern Elliott, he likely draws on his academic background to infuse the poem with a rich blend of thematic depth and artistic expression. The influence of Romanticism is evident in the emphasis on nature’s role in shaping human experiences and emotions, mirroring the works of Wordsworth and Coleridge. “The Sounds of Koria” stands as a testament to Musema Edmond’s skillful storytelling and his ability to capture the spirit of Romantic poetry in a unique and culturally infused context.