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'twas the Worst of All Ifs

If I could see more then than now 'Twas to make a difference somehow An entire battalion to take one hill Regardless the number that we must kill There appears confused reasons why For what is done in righteous war No matter how many fighters die Our leaders always want some more My little life they take for sure 'Twas mostly ifs unfulfilled It seems a vapid wish of war The way that I was killed It's the worst for a cause untrue Tell me now, what's a soldier to do? John Lawless Warrior Sonnet written 1/5/19

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Sotto Poet

Date: 4/8/2022 2:31:00 PM

Paul, congratulations on your win in my Contest with your wonderful poem, I love the imagery and rhyme in this outstanding Sonnet.

Greg Gaul
Date: 4/8/2022 6:24:00 PM

Excellent hosting. Thanks for your placement. Greatly appreciate your visit.

Silent One

Date: 8/29/2019 4:12:00 PM

Congratulations on your placement in the contest..

Caren Krutsinger

Date: 1/23/2019 1:02:00 PM

Greg, my daughter signed up during the Gulf War; I was terrified for her little life. She helped deploy thousands of young optimistic soldiers, and it makes me sad to think of how many probably did not come back. It is horrifying to the ones left behind, so I cannot imagine the fear of the young soldier. And they are all so young!

Greg Gaul
Date: 1/24/2019 9:12:00 AM

Caren, your insight is spot on. I'm often reminded that important poetry is what you say, not how you say it. Picking consequential topics is important, this one touched you and I'm happy for it. Thanks for you kind words.

Carolyn Devonshire

Date: 1/13/2019 9:59:00 AM

Greg, I hope you entered this in the "war sonnet" contest. By personalizing this poem, even speaking from the grave, you present a unique perspective on the horror of war. Clever and also filled with emotion. Best wishes, Carolyn

Greg Gaul
Date: 1/13/2019 8:21:00 PM

Carolyn, once again you're spot on. Yes, I did enter it as you suggested. How kind of you to even suggest it. Thank you very much for the remarks and your poetic insights. Always appreciated.