"Give them the sabre, boys!"
General Stuart
It was different
that first cut as I rode through the wave of men.
I caught a man in the back with deep stroke
he threw up his arms
like you do when you see a friend
you have not seen for a long time.
I felt bad as I watched him fall
having been told never to hit a man from behind
but that was such a different day.
Sabers flashed like lightning in the sun,
then the terrible thunder of pistols and carbines.
I saw a young man
perhaps not in his twentieth year
stand like a statue
cut from belly to jaw
sink to his knees
as if to pray.
And it occurred to me that God was looking down
on this battlefield now seeded with flesh
and watered with blood
sadly shaking his head
harvest time would be here soon
and all will eat their share of this
in this garden I also walk away from.
-
Author:
Jon Nakapalau (
Offline) - Published: August 19th, 2021 17:18
- Comment from author about the poem: Written after reading about The Battle of Brandy Station.
- Category: Reflection
- Views: 16
Offline)
Comments1
A fine action poem turned into a meditation on violence, human frailty, and the meaning of life. God has a lot to shake her head about, that's for sure. And maybe shed a tear... at some point does God stop trying?
That is a question I have asked myself so many times my friend - thank you for your insightful comment.
To be able to comment and rate this poem, you must be registered. Register here or if you are already registered, login here.