Incident

she stood there in a daze
by strangers surrounded
they had given her the folded flag
as the last post sounded
keepsake of a warrior
it had graced his casket top
she held it scarce knowing
as the bugle notes stopped
in reality she stood alone
for now every tear cried
for the moment in a daze
ashen faced and dry eyed
the ceremony over
they moved out of her life
they had given precious time
to a bereaved and grieving wife
with the ceremony played out
she was really due no more
so they left her there in silence
to carry on the planning of their war
Copyright © | Year Posted 2022

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

Volumes Avatar
October 29, 2022 at 2:14 AM
Suppose they gave a war, and nobody came? .............When will we learn that humans fighting humans, means nobody wins? ......... The irony your poem illuminates Terry is infuriating. They show respect and even maybe some sadness, then go back to making plans for more men to die. An amazing poem Terry. Its among the many of your best, and will be another favorite of mine.
Volumes Avatar
October 29, 2022 at 4:24 AM
You have mentioned the VSC before. A wonderful organization Terry.
Ireland Avatar
October 29, 2022 at 3:15 AM
Thanks Wendy. This came from the 7 years working with Hull Veterans Support Centre, a small charity formed, manned and run by unpaid Veterans. Some of the stories were horrendous and most of us were damaged in some way, but that helped us all.
Bauer Avatar
October 28, 2022 at 9:28 AM
So sad, Terry! Unfortunately, very realistic as well…
Ireland Avatar
October 29, 2022 at 3:15 AM
Thank you Ilene
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