Edward Ibeh Poet Narrative

Maelstrom

this is a story...

of courage
and heroism.
after agonizing months
in captivity, withstanding
the churning maelstrom
of unspeakable horrors
day in, day out;
frequently subjected 
to torture, mockery,
psychological warfare, etc,
the long-suffering prisoners of war
miraculously 
make a break to freedom.
the great escape, 
however, 
tasted too bittersweet
to celebrate.
all but one was accounted for
the seemingly impossible 
had to be done;
the intrepid soldiers 
decide to u-turn back
behind enemy lines
to rescue one of their own,
no matter the cost.
fully aware
they're embarking 
on a dangerous mission
that will suck them into 
yet another maelstrom of war: 
furious exchanges of gunfire -
they surge ahead nonetheless
they have no misgivings 
dying by
the "Leave No Man Behind" code,
they live by.


Writing Challenge - M words - Poetry Contest
Sponsored by Constance La France
Theme/word chosen: Maelstrom
Date written: 03/20/2023

♡Like0

Share 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

Constance La France April 3, 2023 at 4:49 AM Edward, excellent writing and thank you for sharing your poem with us in my Writing Challenge congratulations ,

Alfonso II Warally Ngengethe Mussabwa Chris March 22, 2023 at 4:11 AM Congratulations on your top win , Edward. Wonderful poem Edward Ibeh March 22, 2023 at 5:18 AM Thank you so much, Alfonso:-)

Sam Kauffman March 21, 2023 at 10:12 AM Congratulations on your win Edward! You have chosen a theme that illustrates the way courage, commitment and honor lifts up the souls of men and all of mankind! We need continual reminders such as those illustrated in your words. Blessings to you! Edward Ibeh March 22, 2023 at 5:17 AM Thank you very much for your wonderful feedback and congratulations, Sam:-)

Paula Goldsmith March 21, 2023 at 9:28 AM Congratulations on your win. What a wonderful yet sad write/story. It is true for some. Have a great/blessed day writing away........... Edward Ibeh March 22, 2023 at 5:16 AM Thank you very much, Paula:-)

Anne-Lise Andresen March 21, 2023 at 9:13 AM - A story we know - which is terribly sad, Edward - Congratulations on your win - hugs Edward Ibeh March 22, 2023 at 5:16 AM Thank you so much, Anne-Lise:-)

Christuraj Alex March 21, 2023 at 7:29 AM "dying by the "Leave No Man Behind" code, they live by" - A great tribute to the patriots. Congratulations! Edward Ibeh March 22, 2023 at 5:14 AM Thank you very much, Christuraj:-)

Linda Alice Fowler March 21, 2023 at 7:05 AM Nicely written for the brothers-in-arms Edward. A debt we can never repay. Congratulations on your win! :) Edward Ibeh March 22, 2023 at 5:15 AM Thank you very much, Linda:-)

Speaks Volumes March 21, 2023 at 7:00 AM Congratulations, A worthy winner. Best wishes. Edward Ibeh March 22, 2023 at 5:15 AM Thank you very much, Wendy:-)

Speaks Volumes March 20, 2023 at 9:32 PM Tears. Knew two men that were Prisoners of war during the Vietnam war. What a terrible experience and to escape and be courageous enough to return for one left behind, unimaginable. A maelstrom of hate and fear and punishment and pain. I feel rigid and numb. This poem has great impact. Spellbinding. Horrendous. I am sorry, although it deserves it, I cant bring myself to make such a poem, my favourite. Edward Ibeh March 22, 2023 at 5:19 AM Thank you so much for your kind words and perspective, Wendy:-)