Here's a Where I'm From style poem from the point of view of an ancient Mali citizen
I am from dancing in my free time and making instruments out of everything we could,
From the cozy mud houses decorated with bright colours
I am from making many trips to the well to get water for everyone,
The the scorching hot sun
whose burns I remember
as if they never healed.
I’m from having a job that benefits everyone
from agriculture and trade
I’m from making dyes and baskets
and from waking up early to get a good market spot.
I’m from *Griots and being told everyone is family,
even if we’re not related by blood.
I’m from listening to travelers stories
and telling stories of my own
I’m from eating fish, vegetables, meat, and bread
From the colourful carpets, clothing and pots
located all throughout the village
I am from Around 1610, when Mahmud IV died
I’m from when the three brothers fought for the land
from the land being split into thirds
United we stood, divided we fell
I am from Mali
*Griot- A travelling story teller