Conventions of War

There are many of these it seems,
Always changing over time,
As present passes into history.
But none of these bad dreams,
Can clearly be decoded.
In one context or the next.
So the umbrella of convention,
Always leaks a little,
And sometimes leaks a lot,
When the storm of death arrives,
On the field of battle.

Then the storm spills into Geneva,
As civilization fights a comeback round.
Why are we surprised and shocked,
At mortal inability to decipher,
A conventional killing in the future.
Maybe our eyes can't see far enough,
Either behind us or ahead,
And the distance of time clouds our view,
Of a future soldier in the field.
Who will once again see death,
All too close and clear

Copyright © | Year Posted 2009



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Date: 12/4/2009 8:46:00 AM
I have enjoyed reading your poetry today James. Have a wonderful weekend filled with love and compassion for others. Inspiration is waiting for you grab it and write. Love, Carol
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Date: 12/3/2009 3:05:00 PM
The tenets of the Geneva convention seem to have been discarded not only by our enemies, but by those who torture enemies in American war prisons. Very powerful write, insightful and thought-provoking. Excellent work, James! I wrote a poem long ago about the Soup's three "James Brothers" (Fraser, Goff and Peranteau). Perhaps it is time to revisit this concept to include a fourth brother. I wish those who manage our military would read this poem! Love, Carolyn
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Date: 12/3/2009 11:25:00 AM
War's aim has always been annihilation of the other, yet in its pursuit the combatant has to observe certain rules and conventions. Which is really funny. Imagine, in the thick of battle where survival itself, not conventions, is the premium, the warrior is expected to kill but only conditionally, which means that out in the chaotic battlefield, the soldier has to be mindful of the law as well while fighting for his life! War makes idiots of men. Another penetrating write you have here, James.
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