The Battle of Brandy Station

"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.