Visible hate object
Modern disease
In tribal hierarchy
Called nationalism.
As if
Draping flag
Buys dispensation
For murder genocide
And other crimes.
Territorially marking
Claimed land
By sewn cloth-ribbons.
Unlike animals
Using urine
Or musk glands.
Sigh.
Extended families staring
Ruined village
Blank eyes seeing
Yet not.
Stunned survivors
Search rumble
For memories
From destroyed past.
Dead become martyrs
Teaching another generation
Hate.
Sighing sadly.
Citizenship ceremony
Long journey end
For refugees and immigrants
To new land.
Opportunity-fresh starts awaiting
Building on hope and faith
Leaving troubles behind
Of a brighter future
And prosperity.
Waving paper flags
New citizens blinded
Exploding camera flashes
Broad grins
Family and friends.
“Attention!”
Mourners gather
Round grieving family
Openly weeping
Closed draped casket.
Hidden war casualty
PTSD suicide
Daemons won
Total system failure.
Honour guards
Rifles ready
Volleys fired
Slain soldier memory.
Commanding officer
Hands folded flag
With crisp salute
To family.
Therisa © 2018
Author's note: This is my third attempt at writing this poem. Abandoning earlier versions,
as being too much male bashing and hateful for what I wanted.
as being too much male bashing and hateful for what I wanted.
And yes, there is only one poem, this week.
Written for Poets United’s midweek motif writing prompt: national flag(s).
