The evocative poem ‘Make Hummus Not Walls’ by Adri Rocks, is reflecting on the turmoil of wars and borders while highlighting the power of hummus as a unifying force. This thought-provoking piece delves into the longing for authentic hummus across divided territories, capturing the significance of food, privilege, and activism in a poignant and introspective manner.
Walls of Hummus
“Make hummus not walls”
Uttered the internet
Snap to attention, wars are brewing
Just across the Mediterranean
A 20-minute flight from Cyprus
The best hummus on Earth
Girls on the top floor,
Not a hair to be seen in this restaurant
Dip their fries into sad pools of unrelenting sauce
Oh how I wish it was hummus
But hummus belongs across the wall
Here, all we have is knock-off chipotle mayo
Separating, the emulsion breaking
A green clad soldier approaches
Phallic weapon in her once soft hand
“passports please” I came here for the hummus
But I freeze in privileged victimhood,
Glancing around to observe the disparity
At least our plates let us transcend.
Acti-tourism, tourism activism, justice tourism
We must defend what is not ours
I came here for the hummus, now
I cannot even open my pathetic mouth.
Our car rumbles through pages of
History we wish we could scream anew
Alas, my jaw is glued shut, we cross
With ease, swallowing hummus on either side.
Written by Adri Rocks
