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Nature of War

The field of battle spread before us
Enemy soldiers approaching in ranks,
Suddenly soundless silver birds appear
Our focus changes to the sullen skies,
Bombs rain like missiles from the gods
We are defeated by an unseen force,
The nature of war is forever changed.

Written August 7, 2022

perspectivewarepyllion

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Caren Krutsinger

August 12, 2022 at 9:18 PM

those "soundless silver birds" frighten me even now.

Gary Radice

August 8, 2022 at 8:29 AM

Milt I love this. Your poem had me looking up the epyllion form: "a narrative poem that resembles an epic poem in style, but which is notably shorter." I cannot argue with that when referring to your excellent piece. It may be 'shorter' but it's no less epic in its message. Was it the pop group Frankie Goes To Hollywood who sung the lyrics "Just think, war breaks out and nobody turns up." (Two Tribes)? We are edging closer to nuclear war and it's so scary. Cheers - Gary

L Milton Hankins

August 8, 2022 at 8:38 AM

Thank you so much, Gary, for your thoughtful comment. I'm glad it prompted you to learn about the epyllion form. Yes, we are living in frightening times, and, even though the nature of war has changed, it is no less scary.

Harry Horsman

August 7, 2022 at 9:48 PM

So right, Milton, the battlefield has changed, with annihilation on both sides, i cannot see a winner at all, so if the powers to be had half a brain, surely they give this pathetic threat against each other up, and help feed the whole world, and help everyone to have a decent life. Thanks for the poem, its packed with meaning.

L Milton Hankins

August 8, 2022 at 7:31 AM

Thank you, harry, so much for your thoughtful comment. I agree wholeheartedly with what you have said.