The Balloon Seller


Every day, the undercover soldier
Used to buy her big balloons
Red, blue, yellow, green, colourful and free
In those lazy afternoons

She let them fly with a smile on her face
Her laughter ringing around
He watched her do that every single day
And yet bought her balloons round

One day, he had to go for his duty
He gave her pink, new balloons
Said goodbye, rushed off to attack the foe
Missile launched from his platoons

His mission, a success, enemy killed
But some civilians died too
Pink balloons floating far away, cries heard
He had murdered her, he knew

He went to see her, that cute little girl
Just to pacify himself
He found her dead, her body strewn about
He could not forgive his self

Resigning his job, balloons, he now sells 
But never rose-pink balloons
A little girl's death, heavy on his mind
In dreams, with her, he communes

In every child, he sees her lovely face
Laughing over her balloons
Silent tears flow from his penitent heart
As he sells "flying full moons"



10th Feb 2023


For Anthony Biaanco's "Balloons" contest
Copyright © | Year Posted 2023

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

Goldsmith Avatar
March 3, 2023 at 7:38 AM
Congratulations on your win. A lovely yet sad write/story/picture. Have a blessed day......................
Dietrich Avatar
February 10, 2023 at 5:49 PM
oh my that is so tragic. What a great way to deal with the balloon theme, Jo.
Poet Avatar
February 10, 2023 at 5:37 AM
Jo, this is a great poem you've written for the balloon contest. This poem is made much more beautiful by your wonderful images. I hope you do well in the contest.
Andresen Avatar
February 10, 2023 at 3:29 AM
- Children love balloons ... a touching poem, Jo - Best wishes in the contest - hugs
Buhagiar Avatar
February 10, 2023 at 1:57 AM
A very original poem, Jo. Pity, it is a tad sad. But that is war. Best for a win.
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