Get Your Premium Membership

I Am But a Flag

I have caressed
in coffin draped hugs
those who defended me,
hung limply as taps
and tears flowed
across generations.
Known the thrill
of fireworks and jubilation
rose, full faced,
in sundrenched
wind starched glory.
Wept in “half staffed” darkened loneliness
as horse drawn carriages
moved through silenced crowds.
I am neither a cause
nor a solution
but a symbol
of our best….and worst.

I am but a flag.
I look to you
to raise me up.


John G. Lawless
©6/14/2021

Copyright © | Year Posted 2021




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

Date: 6/20/2021 12:15:00 PM
wow, John, this is simply amazing work. Poetry at its best. FAVE
Login to Reply
Date: 6/15/2021 5:47:00 PM
About time someone gave the Flag a chance to defend itself! This is superb, John. A real bulls-eye. ~ gw
Login to Reply
Date: 6/14/2021 3:45:00 PM
This is an excellent poem John. One of those poems that hit hard and make one think.
Login to Reply
Date: 6/14/2021 9:34:00 AM
Ah, John, you have penned an absolutely marvelous tribute to our flag. It reflects my sentiments exactly, too. Thank you for this poem worthy of being read over and over again...and publicly!
Login to Reply
Date: 6/14/2021 8:03:00 AM
You brilliantly captured the symbolism and importance of our flag, John. Too often forgotten or disrespected, may our flag continue to fly proudly..
Login to Reply
Date: 6/14/2021 6:42:00 AM
John, I love the personification! This is powerful and inspirational! Going in my FAV's. Blessings, Kim M
Login to Reply
Date: 6/14/2021 6:32:00 AM
WOW. Incredible write. I just love it! Beautiful. God bless you and this wonderful flag. Love, Gina
Login to Reply

Book: Radiant Verses: A Journey Through Inspiring Poetry