A Mother’s Plea

Please don’t photograph. The cold feet
of my baby withered blue petals.

I will rub her feet and tickle her ghungroo*—
she may open her eyes.

I will part her mouth, feed her halwa—
she may ask for more. No, I will let her sleep

so vultures won’t follow her to heaven.
Please don’t photograph; flashes will wake her.

Sleep, my baby, sleep.


*a musical anklet worn by Afghan/Indian dancers

Author of the article

Lakshmy Nair grew up in Kerala, India, before moving to Chicago, where she is currently residing. She is a scientist, author, and traveler who writes in English and Malayalam, her native language. Her poem "First Walk" was nominated for the 2022 Pushcart Prize. Many of her translations have been published in various journals, including the University of Iowa's Exchanges: Journal of Literary Translations. When she is not writing or traveling, Lakshmy loves to cook for her family and friends.