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Muffled drums bring slow marching feet
Around and across the waiting square,
Play past the halt and stop.
The Standard creaks to half mast,
A paused Trooper points his bugle
To pour the world silvered notes.
The ghost armies briefly stay
Their ever constant war
Then resume their fight
As the last note fades
And the parade falls out..
The Standard’s rope cracks cracks cracks
Against its pole on the empty windy ground.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2023

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Volumes Avatar
April 24, 2023 at 1:45 AM
A timely poem Terry, as I suppose you know its our ANZAC day tomorrow. If I may I will send your poem to a few friends who will appreciate reading it in light of tomorrow's ceremonies.
Bauer Avatar
April 23, 2023 at 10:11 AM
what a powerful and poignant picture you've painted here, terry! i especially love the last two lines...
Ireland Avatar
April 23, 2023 at 10:32 AM
Thank ilene. Taking part in a parade like that is so emotional.
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