Requiem For the Past

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[While going through old papers, I discovered the manuscript for this poem, dated 1981. I recall writing it, but I do not remember the circumstances. This is the first time the poem has been presented for reading to the public.]

Once could mend or move a cause In search of bleeding sun Pressed never for a need to pause Until the thing was done. They ill-afford to fight and yield A life on holy principle Or noble sacrifice to field Before the young and sensible. The bold and bitter sound the fear In shot. What difference lies Who cease to mourn and tear While unmindfully the nation cries. The yelps of altered discontent Restraint propelled to faltered feet Whose who pay in kind repent That truth lies dead in sad defeat.

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Caren Krutsinger

Date: 7/26/2021 3:04:00 PM

"What difference lies Who cease to mourn and tear While unmindfully the nation cries" - this is so true; powerful.

L Milton Hankins
Date: 7/26/2021 4:06:00 PM

Thank you, Caren. Again, I wish I remembered the circumstances under which I wrote this. Could have been during the early days of Viet Nam????