poem : invocation

distant voice heard at the corner
blame it on the wind
front door blown open
can’t keep accusing the weather

giggles behind you
the spirit in you knows
Eshu must be fed first

hungry as a child
bring some candy

mischevious man
pour rum in gulps at any crossroads

old now
light his cigars


omi tutu, axé tutu, onã tutu, ilê tutu, tutu Laroyê 1


quick now, keep up
Eshu works all corners, all doors, all paths
pour palm oil greedily
wherever two streets come together

and if you are lucky
days later
your dream will have you in the kitchen making café
walking out with small white cups of espresso
while Eshu runs between your steps

there is a party happening tonight
and Eshu is happy about it, has come early

look down
grab a hold of him
marvel at his wild face near yours
love the wilderness living within him
let him wrap his legs around your waist
let him hug you hard
his hand possessively at your neck, fingers in your hair

if Eshu is with you none are against

welcome Elegua welcome


1 fresh water, the spirit is fresh, the way is fresh, the home is fresh, Eshu is fresh.