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As the Aster Blossoms Fade to Gray

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The aster is a flower that allegedly symbolize valor, wisdom, and faith/loyalty--virtues that are most tested during times of war. I was thinking of the Imjin Wars (1592-1598) when I wrote this, but I left the details vague enough so that it doesn't have to be tied to that specific campaign. Human history has seen too many pointless wars and campaigns that only sparked due to a few individuals' pride and greed, but is unfortunately paid for by the innocents caught in the crossfire.

As the aster blossoms fade to gray A thousand-strong fleet trespass upon a bay Their leader sought to be the Lord of hosts To wage this war he spared no cost Then winter knell takes autumn's breath away As the aster blossoms fade to gray The grain has gone, the fight must cease But sacred honour stands in the way of peace Factions fracture with murmurs of mutiny Under solemn oaths, they sacrifice Fidelity As aster blossoms fade to gray And leaves stain scarlet with the blood they pay Ambitions die, no more can proud men boast But innocence! They suffered most-- Forgotten, in unknown graves they lay As the aster blossoms fade to gray

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Dexter Greener

Date: 4/28/2025 11:08:00 PM

It is well written to bring out images of your vision and intent; it flows beautifully. Well done!

Vanya Evangeline
Date: 5/1/2025 11:31:00 PM

Thank you!

Zyrool Gifford

Date: 4/14/2025 3:35:00 AM

Hello Vanya, I have enjoyed reading your beautifully written poem. Very touching. Wishing you a wonderful new week ahead.

Vanya Evangeline
Date: 5/1/2025 11:31:00 PM

Thanks so much.

Susan Ashley

Date: 3/10/2025 9:47:00 PM

Dear Vanya, your poem is filled with tenderly expressed poignant beauty. The repeating verse fits perfectly into each stanza and resonates with the sad, bloody, deadly tolls of war where, indeed, “innocence” suffers most. Your golden pen spills with potent poetic finesse. Congratulations for your success in Sara’s contest. Warmest wishes.. ~Susan

Vanya Evangeline
Date: 3/10/2025 10:00:00 PM

Thanks, Susan. I originally wanted to write a quatern, but couldn't fit the syllable count, so I classified it as simply a quatrain (since I decided the rhyme and imagery was more important than the syllable) while steel keeping the chorus and 4-stanza format.