Poetic Justice

- Ode to the Anti-War Poets -
(on seeing the film 'Voices in Wartime')

Hands writing by half-light, despised by might
Though instrumental to the heart and right,
Proffered in pilgrim, prayer-like supplication,
Plead deep to deep to purchase Dispensation
That never will despise the heart contrite
But rather usher in the Lord's delight.

Meanwhile, the weapons of a murderous nation,
By other hands inflaming conflagration,
Hating their neighbor, so themselves to spite,
Into the holy image deeply bite.
Such the nature of that abomination
Daniel foresaw, that causes desolation.

Yet poets' hands that by the Spirit fight
Those hands that hung shall take to Heaven's height.

April 2005