Candombe

In dim light the
ubiquitous cameras 
might be mistaken by
those who are nearly blind
as pendants or sacred  
rattles. But this is day-
light, & the absence of

ceremonial ornament
is obvious. & inappropriate. 
Still he dances for them,
explains the symbolism 
of each step, then watches 
as the subtleties are
washed away by the

tourguide’s translation.
Occasionally he invents 
outrageous lies, describing 
a passage as being 
passed down from
the dragons or visitors
from outer space. The 

guide still runs with
yesterday’s routine. At night
he dances for himself
alone. & for his ancestors.
Trying to appease the gods
who left the day after
the first tourbus arrived.