The Blue and the Grey

Under the canopy of the pine trees we lay
My brothers and I, and our mates the other three,
They wore a different uniform the colour grey
Yet here in purgatory a smile from them being free

Oh to remember how we all played at the creek
Although their parents with different points of view,
The six of us born within sight of ‘Clinch mountain peak’
Our lot raised to suit the uniform of blue.

We faced each other on the battlefield of ‘Bull Run’
Ne’er a smile of recognition as the rifles reflect,
This is realism in a war of detriment with a gun
Following advice from those in power we respect.

Cannot speak for the others but the bullet caused me pain
Far worse than the wounds with wooden swords when fought,
At least first to go didn’t witness how each were slain
Nor with vigour their efforts from the way we were taught.

So here we are all standing before our beloved God
Waiting to enter heaven having shouldered the blame,
We’ve played our earthly role and carried opinions hod
Never the time to become adult when playing their game.

Thank you Eve Roper
for contest and inspirational first line.

Entered  Mark Toney's sponsored
2022 poetry marathon mile 8 contest
poem written 2020
17/7/2022
Copyright © | Year Posted 2020

Poem

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Kauffman Avatar
May 8, 2021 at 9:18 AM
Congratulations on your win Harry. You have skillfully captured the angst of the blue and grey with memories of innocent childhood ripped apart by the war between the states. Well done my friend! Blessings.
Alex Avatar
May 7, 2021 at 11:23 PM
Congratulations!
Kelii Kekaula Avatar
May 7, 2021 at 10:40 PM
A memorable piece, Harry, admirable approach and exposé of involving entities -- nicely penned, my gratitude for your participation, and my compliments on your well-deserved placement my friend, Aloha!
Dietrich Avatar
April 18, 2020 at 12:35 PM
Harry, you asked about a Mary Yaws. NO, I do not remember this name. Did you hear something about her? Let me go to my Faves list again, and find other poems of yours I have loved!!
Roper Avatar
April 13, 2020 at 10:46 PM
Such an emotional, but meaningful write, Harry, very moving. Congratulations on your win. Hugs Eve
Andresen Avatar
April 13, 2020 at 1:54 PM
- A deeply moving poem, Harry ... congratulations on your win :) - hugs // Anne-Lise :)
One Avatar
April 13, 2020 at 7:32 AM
Great story telling and a great take on the contest.. Congrats on your placement in the contest.
Dietrich Avatar
April 9, 2020 at 4:39 PM
wow, you went DEEP with her line, Harry. This is a really good one from you.I expect to see it high on the winner list!
Deo Avatar
April 7, 2020 at 3:39 AM
Sad history (Two Battles in Virginia's Bull Run) and one of the worst war fatalities on both sides. U surprised me with the nature of deep knowledge of America's & UK's "UNCIVIL civil wars" Shalom ShalOm Sir Harry and Team (ER, SO) Congrats
Adams Avatar
April 6, 2020 at 9:54 PM
poignant and powerful verse... you brought that line to life wonderfully Harry... best wishes in the contest, I am sure it will find its way to the winner's list! hugs and blessings
Knapp Avatar
April 6, 2020 at 2:36 AM
Harry, So sad but true. Many lives have been given and taken so young. Thank you for sharing your story my friend. Debbie Knapp
Proxenos Avatar
April 2, 2020 at 10:49 AM
This war was so sad - brother against brother, friend against friend, father against son and vice versa - it brought a great amount of grief to many many families and friends. Excellent poetic historical write - your talent is truly harnessed in this poem Harry. Blessings, Jennifer.
Delaney Avatar
April 3, 2020 at 3:44 PM
So sad that political beliefs can divide with such hatred......and we haven’t learned a lot since then. Well written and food for thought. SuZ
Laurie Avatar
April 2, 2020 at 12:34 AM
Hello Harry … a really sad verse on the refection of war, and particularly civil war and what effect it has on generation after generation. This civil war did really tear families apart - thanks again Harry - Lindsay
Ashley Avatar
April 1, 2020 at 7:58 PM
Your potent pen flows with contemplative and captivating ink, Harry. I was drawn into the journey of your powerful poem fueled by Eve's inspiring first poetic line. Brilliant poetry with a fantastic bittersweet last line that compliments the human drama perfectly. Best wishes for a win and my warmest wishes for you, dear poet and friend.. ~Susan
Macfarlane Avatar
April 1, 2020 at 4:27 PM
An excellent powerful write Harry. Hugs
Raven Avatar
April 1, 2020 at 1:22 PM
Hi Harry, this is an excellent piece of poetry. The American Civil war is one of my favourite periods of history. Funny that, me being from Scotland. I love the content of this wonderful write. I love the strong imagery that sings in my mind. A definite fav. Have a wonderful Wednesday. Your friend always....Mike.
Sands Avatar
April 1, 2020 at 1:18 PM
Wow a powerful poem , well written. I hope you are well :)
Ball Avatar
April 1, 2020 at 9:43 AM
Very Reminiscent of The War Between The States. A hard and sad time for all. Great story told here with wonderful imagery. As always an excellent piece. God Bless, JB
Tams The Golden Girl Avatar
April 1, 2020 at 7:35 AM
Just wonderful xx
Krutsinger Avatar
March 31, 2020 at 10:47 PM
Harry, your poem did Eve’s first line incredible justice.
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