Downpour amid Lockdown

Tonmoi Das Kashyap

Peacock in a Rainstorm at Night, late 16th century. India, Northern Deccan. Non-Islamic, Hindu. Ink, opaque watercolor, and gold on paper; 6 1/8 x 7 1/2 in. (15.5 x 19 cm). Private Collection, London.

I could hear the rain falling rhythmically on our roof top. As the drizzle accelerated to a downpour, the hair on my arms stood stiff. Wind slapped the window panes. The fluttering of an unseen bird’s wings. A pigeon, perhaps, taking shelter on the verandah. A loud crack of lightning made our neighbor’s dog restless. It began to bark. Another shock and I felt as if the world was lost in some sudden turmoil. Then, a whistle. My pressure cooker. Lunch was ready.

Tonmoi Das Kashyap is an emerging poet and short story writer. His work has been published in 29 Anthology, Literary Garland, The Daily Drunk and The Assam Tribune. He is awaiting publications in Burgundy Balloon, Trouvaille Review, Litehouse, etc. He lives in Guwahati, India and works at UCO Bank.