Naftanoon- Felix

‘Naftanoon’ Felix

We all felt this was the end but hoped that we were wrong
Particularly when his voice came back so strong
While the Nation watched a football match
A fundraiser to aid an ailing heart
Creole's champion fought against all odds
Holding fast to his all, trusting God
Bazil made serious of his ad
Kept knocking, but his faith stood guard

Wife Carla and Grace gazed at his contorted face
No longer the free spirit the Nation once embrace
48 hours in prison or a vagrant on the street
To tell the poor man's story you accomplished every feat

Oh Master of of wit, pun and satire
You left DBS but never really retire
For adverts, you were the merchant's choice
The message resonated, though comically voiced
You introduced us to Niniput and Bazil
Characters you personified, and made so real

'You must go' indeed your ads told us so
And by some strange coincidence foreshadowed that dreadful end
As Bazil lurked around the bend
Still the Sisserou recognized your flight
Numerous honours bestowed before you said goodnight
Touching every soul, class and race

You mingled, resonated, and brought a smile to every face
Experience Creole, Kaywana and Milia
KEK, Manager Dennis and co- worker Tim Durand
'Tablets and spoonful,' Sign man; Ibrahim Brohim
Wadix who confess, you taught him everything
While Steven D delights, it was you who brought him in

The phrases you coined, 'attitude of fatitude'
'Oh my finger' your exclamation platitude
The poetic ease of your creole tongue
Brought joy to hearts, in village and town
Never your face worn a public frown
Except when West Indies lost another one


'Because you are with me' your final chapter and verse
To a life more bountiful than wallet or purse
A humble Grandbarian from Ma Tutu's perch
You gracefully nourished the land, now return to its earth
Away from life's darkness to a place of light
Naftanoon Felix, here lies your reward, everlasting respite.

By Ian Jackson