A Flanders Tale.

Goldfinch60



If you go looking for them

You will find them,

As I did.

I went to see the Corporal,

I found him,

He was in the cookhouse,

Feeding himself.

The sergeant I wanted to see

But I needed to go to the canteen,

Where he was lying on the floor.

The quarter master was found

A mile or so behind the lines,

Drinking the company rum

With the sergeant major.

I asked where the Captain was

I was told he was at home

On seven days’ leave.

So where were the politicians

Who created this war,

They were drinking brandy

In the House of Commons bar.

And what about the Private,

Where was he?

He was hanging on the old barbed wire!

 

 

 

  • Author: Goldfinch60 (Pseudonym) (Offline Offline)
  • Published: August 3rd, 2023 01:09
  • Comment from author about the poem: This is a paraphrase from a traditional folk song called “Hanging on the Old Barbed Wire”
  • Category: Reflection
  • Views: 9
Get a free collection of Classic Poetry ↓

✔ Receive the ebook in seconds ✔ 50 poems from 50 different authors


Comments +

Comments4

  • orchidee

    Well, some papers say the country is run by clowns - Bozo that was, Coco, Thicko, etc. Now's it's robotic RishAI. Doh!

    • Goldfinch60

      So true Orchi, those running the countries only want what is in it for themselves and **** the rest!.

      Andy

      • orchidee

        Do they deserve it? I reckon they deserve some of it - Coco and Company, as the papers say.

      • Teddy.15

        Wonderful, Andy 💖

        • Goldfinch60

          Thank you Teddy.

          Andy

        • Doggerel Dave

          Thanks for that, Andy - never come across it before.

          Strikes me that the futility of that war, and perhaps all wars makes the participants of your poem and its originals more understandable - and even rational.

          • Goldfinch60

            Thank you Dave.

            Yes what you have said is so true.

            Andy

          • AuburnScribbler

            A very harrowing scene you've unfolded here Andy, but it is brilliantly delivered.

            The shocking divisive parameters that comprise governmental rule against the wellbeing of the people, truly tears the hearts out of every person, especially now, with what's happening in the Ukraine.

            A powerful image indeed here, and a true reminder for us to try to keep both the moral, and morale of us, as kind as possible.

            Bless that private upon the barbed wire!

            Bravo, and I hope that all is well.

            • Goldfinch60

              Thank you Ben, your words are so true.
              Why can they never learn!!!!
              Andy



            To be able to comment and rate this poem, you must be registered. Register here or if you are already registered, login here.