Faith and Fanaticism

Unless we finally stop branding
  one another as pagans or infidels
    and as heathens or barbarians,
      we shall continue to imperil
        ourselves day in and day out,
          with genocidal bloodshed;


for there are many around us
  who seek to ruthlessly decimate
    those they see as not among them
      while they preach and proclaim
        universal love and world peace,
          what monumental irony!


indeed, we don't normally do evil
  with as much glee, thoroughness
    and fiery enthusiasm as when
      we do it out of religious zeal
        that brooks no mildest criticism,
          murderous fanaticism!
Copyright © | Year Posted 2008

Poem

Post Comments

Poetrysoup is an environment of encouragement and growth so only provide specific positive comments that indicate what you appreciate about the poem. Negative comments will result your account being banned.

Please Login to post a comment

Be the first to comment on this poem. Encourage this poet.

Get a Premium Membership
Turn off ads, get more exposure for your poetry, and get more features with a Premium Membership.
Book: Diverse Voices: The Poetry of Human Rights and the Pursuit of Peace