Notes About The Poem

March 19, 2024

"Legend" Poetry Contest

Sponsor: Silent One

My Warrior - Legend

A gentleman from a grand, but time-worn oil-painting,
Unbelievably handsome in his fifties,
Immaculately dressed in a formal grey suit,
From the backdrop of a luscious tea-garden
On a mountaineous plush valley,
Looked at me with an intriguing smile.....
In my maternal grandmother’s house!

“Who is he?” 
I remember enquiring my mother, 
“And where did he go?”

My mother's eyes welled up...
But she wiped tears from her eyes,
And always said in a firm voice,
“He never left,
He is with us”! 

Some day I realized,
My grandfather passed away in his prime years, 
From a terrible disease called Meningitis! 
Cruelly his life was cut short, but 
He left a legacy of honesty, integrity, bravery,
Compassion for the poor and the needy…
He protected a huge population of 
Distressed villagers in his area,
From being ruthlessly slaughtered,
When the country became devastated 
With riots between religious groups. 

Villagers composed and dedicated a song,
Chanting the bravery of a lonely warrior 
Who courageously stood for them
Against barbarous enemies, 
Sacrificing his own happiness, 
So numerous men, women, children
Could live unharmed, and sleep peacefully
In their humble cottages. 

King Arthur, legendary knight of the Round Table...
Legendary Robin Hood, the outlaw of Sherwood forest...
The legend of my own warrior,
jamais oublie'!
Copyright © | Year Posted 2024

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

One Avatar
April 10, 2024 at 4:32 AM
Your poem is a moving tribute to your grandfather and the enduring power of his legacy. Through its rich imagery and heartfelt storytelling, it celebrates the timeless virtues of honour, bravery, and compassion, ensuring that the memory of the grandfather's heroic deeds will never be forgotten. Congratulations on your placement in the contest..
Ray Choudhury Avatar
April 10, 2024 at 6:11 AM
Thank you, Dear Poet. I feel honoured with your placement in the contest!
Pandit Avatar
March 22, 2024 at 7:41 AM
Wonderfully reminiscing in beloved memories. A heartfelt tribute your wrote, Mala. Much enjoyed reading your poem.
Guptar Avatar
March 20, 2024 at 11:21 PM
A very emotive write. Particularly appreciated the first stanza, which brings the warrior to life. Best wishes in the contest. Krishna
Ray Choudhury Avatar
March 21, 2024 at 4:17 AM
Thank you so much, Dear Poet. I really appreciate your thoughtful comment. Mentioning the stanza you liked - brings me joy.
M  Avatar
March 19, 2024 at 2:30 PM
What a wonderful man and story of your grandfather Malabika! A legend indeed one to be proud of for sure! Debx
Ray Choudhury Avatar
March 19, 2024 at 2:45 PM
Thank you, Deb. Glad you read my poem, which is a true story from my family history. Really appreciate your inspiring comment.
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