Words for a Memorial Not Yet Erected

I wrote this on November 11, 1966, a day for words on and about memorials.

Here stood the border;
Here the stones knew blood:
Here patriots patriots stemmed,
Broke each the other's flood,
Then.

Here changed the language;
Here closed gates in peace:
Here formal smiles were smiled
Till time for smiles should cease,
Then.

Here flowed the river,
Knowing not its banks;
But two flags marked where each
Should set their silent ranks,
Then.

No need to pause here;
Seek not steel nor stain:
Friends speak where kings could not,
The stream forgets again,
Now.

Return to "Writings" page to make another selection.