Markai (Ghost of the Father)

Description

MARKAI

My gabba-gabba is ready
At the sound of the drum
My Awa is here
His spirit has come

Before war is waged
I listen in silence
My awa speaks of
The impending violence

He advises me firmly
Of the Headhunters’ war
I listen carefully
His word is Lore

He’s taken me through
The rites of passage
Now, he returns
With an urgent message

“I will never leave you
We will always be one
My spirit will guide you
My warrior son”

My gabba-gabba is ready
At the sound of the drum
My Awa is here
His spirit has come

– Merwez Whaleboat 2009

Markai – Ghost/spirit
Gabba-gabba – Stone club weapon used in headhunting raids
Awa – Mother’s brother