the burning ghats
through the heat shimmer
of the pyres of Varanasi
a boat
a tiny shroud
stone weighted
sinks
the mother’s hand
touches the Ganga waters
wet but empty
flames purify
those who cross over
flesh blackening
melting
the elements return
to Mother Nature
from whom
they never really left
The Burning Ghats at Varanasi
HC: 2006