Susan's Challenge
Old Glory on splintered pole
the mirror's reflection does not lie
her fabric pulled by greed's control
a promise stitched in freedom's seam
bartered cheap for power's dream
her stars dimmed by angry cries
truth drowned in cunning lies
red runs hot, white is frayed
blue is bruised, trust decayed
still she waits in tattered grace
for hearts to heal, minds to face
freedom simply not a prize
it lives or dies
in how we rise
I like the power in your poem. "still she waits in tattered grace / for hearts to heal, minds to face" gives me flag as mirror, I think.
ReplyDeleteIf a mirror is honesty and imagery you provided us with both, rhythmically and with beautiful clarity, though stars may dim.
ReplyDeleteIndeed it does depend on how you rise. I have great faith in the American people to rid themselves of this prurient pestilence that has besieged them. Your President's behaviour is anti American and is an insult to everything that America stands for. You will and must win back your hard won fight for democracy.
ReplyDeleteHelen, I love this so much - uplifting and energizing, in the midst of so much darkness. How we rise is key. Lovely to see you here.
ReplyDeleteSome powerful thoughts here.
ReplyDelete"truth drowned in cunning lies"--This seems to be the way of the world, politically and socially at present. Yet your poem is a mirror that reflects the truth. Job of a poet; beautifully done.
ReplyDeletePowerful, truthful poem, Helen!
ReplyDelete