THE VIEW FROM BEYOND
Behind the white porticos,
with a mandate for speed,
the chaos and recklessness
of populist policies
drafted in secret,
enacted in haste.
With marred execution,
and no checks and balances,
the law disregarded
and free speech curtailed,
yet craving adulation
whilst humbling peers.
Contemptuous treatment
of allies and partners,
the knife self inflicted
leaves wounds now infected
with world wide derision
devoid of respect.
Michael Edwards © March 2017
-
Author:
Michael Edwards (
Offline) - Published: March 3rd, 2017 00:57
- Comment from author about the poem: I've agonised over posting this one as this is a great site and I don't want offend anyone but perhaps poetry should address more contentious issues from time to time. The poem sets out to reflect the course of events as perceived throughout the developed world resulting, sadly, in a current loss of respect (?) for a great nation. Lets hope the more conciliatory speech the other night will start to change things but that remains to be seen. Plus another watercolour of course.
- Category: Unclassified
- Views: 34
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Comments7
Good write, I cannot say too much as I too am English but as has been said our own country is as bad, only those in power and with money get things done for them and blow the rest. As a pensioner I and my generation are getting blamed for the financial mess the country is in, I paid my way all my life - to make it worse i am still paying as I still get taxed!
I am the same but in some ways I think we may be the lucky generation - I fear for my children with smaller pension pots and with a longer working life.
Cracking picture by the way.
Thanks Goldfinch - glad you like it.
A well aimed rant Michael - agree with the gist of this outcry. Love the beautifully stark picture too.
Thanks fay - yes a rant a day keeps the psychologist away.
Feel the anger here Michael. The picture is appropriate and beautiful.
Thank you - the world seems to be taking backward steps so I guess its as much disappointment as anger.
Well written and expressed Great write
Thanks so much Tony
Welcome
Nice way to express your frustration.
Well actually it's the frustration being almost universally expressed across Europe and beyond.
I said to myself that I wasn't going to compliment your painting, again. . .but, when I saw how the stark nature of the art fit in with the poem I just had to say what a great combo they make. As to politics and poetry, I try not to combine them, though I've been told we have a responsibility to speak out.I would say only this: Democracy may not be the best form of government, but it is way ahead of whatever is in second place. Governments do not destroy Democracy, apathy does. Ultimately, it is we the people who are to blame for whatever happens. 'Nuf said on that.
To your poem: It is spot on in delineating the goings-on in America, today. You were actually kind in the tone used and the claims made. It is a shame to see two of the world's greatest Democracies be in the messes they are currently dealing with. I still remain hopeful about the future though. Hang in there. - Phil A.
Yes I have to agree that the alternatives to the current apologies we have to true democracies don't bear thinking about. It is such a touchy subject and, yes, I could have gone in harder but I was very aware of the friendships we build up on here and would hate to fall out with anyone. In the event I am quite surprised that no one has disagreed which just goes to show the pragmatic honesty of the contributors. Like you I remain forever hopeful. Anyways - thanks for your kind comments on the poem and the painting - and, yes, I'm hanging in !!!
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