Born unknown into the world,
Humbly, obscurely,
Unheard of.
Slept sheltered in his cradle,
Openly, feebly,
Hushed.
Died unknown for the world,
Humbly, obscurely,
Unheard of.
Sleeps guarded in his chamber,
Secretly, strongly,
Muted.
Left unknown as to fiber and face,
Only a symbol to the human race.
If he, this soldier, only knew,
That he, unknown, was famous, too.
(May 8, 1965)
It's very beautiful. Tam. Those final lines I love especially for the thought and rhythm. My father was killed in WWII & I have so many military family members. Every Veteran's Day is something special to me. I appreciate your poem very much.
ReplyDeleteAs a child, I was always concerned about the unknown soldier. I thought it was so wrong that the family never knew. You've created a lovely poem.
ReplyDeleteThis is lovely Tam. Heartfelt and powerful. Thank you for sharing it with all of us.
ReplyDeleteThis is always a tough one for me. I'm feeling this deeply. Wonderful piece,
ReplyDeleteBonnie
Such strong emotion comes through this. It's beautiful and sad. Thank you for sharing.
ReplyDelete