I LIVE IN A RENTED HOUSE

 

H. S. VISWESWARIAH

 

The roof of my tenement leaks,

The doors and windows unhinge and creak,

The floor wears an unkempt countenance,

And I live in a rented house.

 

As I come and go

My house-gate yawns with a tigerish grin,

And shuts with a deafening bang,

And I live in a rentier’s house.

 

My yard is my landlord's litter,

My bath-tub his water-closet,

I am the butt of my landlady,

Who lives in a rented house.

 

When I intend making a roof-garden

My landlord raises the roof

Dancing to the tune of the un tamable shrew

Who lives in a rentier’s house.

 

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