Rickshaw

They met in a night's dream

And chose to take a rickshaw ride

Their arms brushed as the rickshaw was pedalled 

Across the streets of the city

Whose air was laden with the smell of spices

Pepper, dry ginger and cardamom in particular

Their disposition was 

As modest as the mode of transport :

Little nothings were shared, and careful kisses planted 

Their fingers entwined, held tight,

Under the cloth- shelter of the rickshaw;

Stealing a look or two of each others' hidden naughtiness.

As they went past the spice city in gay abandon,

They dozed. 

From Dream to Reality.