Barefoot Coolies

Watching the barefoot coolies as they carried their heavy load amazed me. Astounding to say the least. They showed great physical strength and endurance with small reward at the end of the day.

Barefoot Coolies

I watched the coolies carry the heavy yokes

Baskets of coal swinging on each side

Long lines going to and fro

They march on through the day

Only pausing when the one in front slows

The baskets float along without a sway

And it looks like child’s play

As the sullen-faced men and women carry the load

And empty the laden ship of coal

They step lively along

Each tilted forward a wee bit

To keep the basket of coal

Under control

They must swing it forward a little

To stop or set it down

Carefully bending their knees

The heavy load to relieve

They stop and set on their heels

For a quick moment

Until the line moves again

And the long march goes on

Barefoot, or sandals only

No cushioned shoes

Heels never touch the ground

And no complaints

Leg muscles like steel bands

Show through the skin

Beautiful people

Doing a job

They only ask for a bowl of rice

And a cot

Tomorrow will be another day