Icons Set In Stone

How firmly they stand,
the spires of history
that no one can destroy.
What a curious melange
of hate and love
and yesterday's antipathy.
Indifferent they are,
leaving us their basic legacy-- 
shining, mocking; it is their heritage,
and the winds of change have no effect
upon a single word.

Within their shadow is enshrined,
the totality of every lie 
and every truth we ever knew.
Tread softly in their midst--
It is rarified companionship they offer.
Dare we even to essay to smooth the path
historic footsteps made, 
or cleared the way for ours?

There is no answer from the silent skies.
It is the empty flagon of serenity,
the hopeless void that stretches out forever,
calling forth the meditator to his bench,
and time to its eternal rest.
        ~
Copyright © | Year Posted 2013

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

Dietrich Avatar
October 7, 2013 at 5:49 PM
This is very nice!! Eloquent writing.
Ludden Avatar
October 7, 2013 at 9:23 PM
Thank you, Andrea
Delaney Avatar
October 7, 2013 at 4:43 PM
Well described regarding the atmosphere of monuments and your unique descriptions of the indifferent sky crowns it all. Have added this to my favorites to revisit. SuZ
Ludden Avatar
October 7, 2013 at 5:27 PM
Thank you, Suz, and thanks for visiting today!
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